28 Apr 2023 | 09:16 AM UTC
Mexico: Adverse weather conditions forecast across much of the country through at least May 1
Severe weather forecast across much of Mexico through at least May 1. Possible disruptions due to flooding, strong winds, and tornadoes.
Event
Adverse weather conditions are forecast across much of Mexico through at least May 1. A cold front is expected to move over northern Mexico on April 28, bringing showers, thunderstorms, strong winds, hail, and possible tornadoes to Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas states. The front will move over eastern and southeastern Mexico April 29-30, causing heavy downpours accompanied by possible thunderstorm activity to these regions. Rainfall totals of 7.5-15 cm (3-6 inches) are expected in parts of Chiapas, Oaxaca, Tabasco, and Veracruz states on April 29 and 5-7.5 cm (2-3 inches) in parts of Campeche, Puebla, and Yucatan April 29 and Chiapas April 30. The heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. The front will also generate a surge of strong winds known as a Norte event along the Gulf of Mexico coast on April 29, with winds gusting up to 90 kph (56 mph) possible along the coasts of Tamaulipas and Veracruz.
In western Mexico, high temperatures are forecast to persist over the coming days. Temperatures of more than 40 C (104 F) are expected in parts of Colima, Guerrero, Jalisco, and Michoacan states through May 1. High temperatures are also likely in southeastern regions on April 29.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days and tornado warnings advising the public to shelter in place. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where severe weather impacts utility networks.
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout affected regions. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather will also likely trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in flood- or tornado-hit areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
