12 May 2023 | 11:12 AM UTC
Mexico: Adverse weather conditions forecast across much of the country through at least May 15 /update 1
Severe weather forecast across much of Mexico through at least May 15. Possible disruptions due to flooding, strong winds, and tornadoes.
Event
Adverse weather conditions are forecast across much of Mexico through at least May 15. A dry line extending over northern Mexico will bring strong winds and possible dust storms over northern and northeastern regions May 12, as well as heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, hail, and possible tornadoes to parts of Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, and Tamaulipas states. These conditions are expected to continue May 13-15 as a cold front moves over northern regions. Low pressure channels will also bring showers and storms to central, eastern, southern, and southeastern regions over the coming days. High temperatures are forecast across much of the country May 12 and will persist in western regions along the Pacific coast and in some southern regions, including parts of the Yucatan Peninsula, through at least May 15.
Daily rainfall totals of 7.5-15 cm (3-6 inches) are expected in parts of Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas May 12-15, Coahuila May 12-13 and May 15, Puebla and Veracruz May 13-15, San Luis Potosi May 14, and Chiapas and Oaxaca May 14-15. Rainfall totals of 5-7.5 cm (2-3 inches) are forecast in parts of Hidalgo May 13-15, San Luis Potosi May 13 and May 15, Chihuahua, Coahuila, and Sonora May 14, and Tabasco May 14-15. The heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. Winds gusting up to 90 kph (56 kph) accompanied by possible dust storms and tornadoes are likely in parts of Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, and Tamaulipas May 12-13. Temperatures of more than 40 C (104 F) are expected over the coming days in parts of eastern, western, and southeastern Mexico, including the Yucatan Peninsula.
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.
