Intense Cold Front Triggers Severe Weather Across Mexico
MEXICO CITY, Mexico — A polar air mass associated with Cold Front 36 is generating severe weather conditions, including an intense “Norte” event across eastern regions of Mexico, the Gulf Coast, and the Yucatán Peninsula, with wind gusts expected to reach between 50 to 62 mph (80 to 100 km/h).
On Thursday, Cold Front 36 and the polar air mass are progressing over central, eastern, and southeastern Mexico. By the weekend, these systems will move toward the Yucatán Peninsula, causing heavy rainfall of 2 to 3 inches (50 to 75 mm) in the states of Veracruz and Oaxaca.
The arrival of this polar air mass has led to the forecast of strong northern winds, with gusts between 80 to 100 km/h expected along the Gulf Coast and later affecting the Yucatán Peninsula.
In the Isthmus and Gulf of Tehuantepec, coastal winds may reach up to 62 mph (100 km/h) throughout Thursday and Friday. Additionally, significant cooling is anticipated in northeastern, eastern, central, and southeastern areas of Mexico.
According to the Mexican National Meteorological Service (SMN), various types of precipitation are forecasted across the country due to the influence of Cold Front 36 and the associated air mass. Heavy rainfall is expected in Veracruz, Oaxaca, and Chiapas, with localized areas receiving up to 3 inches (75 mm).
During periods of intense rainfall, flash flooding and pooling on roadways may occur, prompting residents to exercise caution. Other regions, such as Tabasco, are expected to see downpours of up to 2 inches (50 mm), while Hidalgo, Puebla, Estado de México, and Campeche will receive lighter rain ranging from 0.2 to 1 inch (5 to 25 mm).
Wind gusts are anticipated at speeds of up to 47 mph (70 km/h) in the Isthmus and Gulf of Tehuantepec, while a “Norte” event is forecasted to reach 31 mph (50 km/h) with gusts between 43 to 56 mph (70 to 90 km/h) primarily in Veracruz.
Temperatures are expected to plummet in northern and northeastern Mexico due to the advancing cold front. A gradual drop in daytime highs is anticipated, with predictions of temperatures reaching 104 to 113 degrees Fahrenheit (40 to 45 °C) in Sinaloa and Chiapas during the day on Thursday.
Following this cold front, temperatures in higher regions including Chihuahua and Durango may drop to between 23 to 32 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 to -5 °C), with the possibility of frost overnight.
Weather conditions are expected to remain dynamic as Cold Front 36 gradually diminishes in intensity, with ongoing potential for showers and strong winds across Mexico on Friday.
The coming days will see various weather elements in effect as the interplay between air masses continues, requiring residents to stay updated on forecasts and weather alerts.
