Mexico: Emergency declared in Guadalajara May 2 due to forest fire

Event

On Tuesday, May 2, the government of the state of Jalisco declared an "atmospheric emergency" in the Guadalajara metropolitan area due to a forest fire in the La Primavera Forest. Classes have been canceled at 78 elementary schools in the surrounding area.

Government forest fire crews are currently working to contain the fire, with strong winds making the fire more difficult to control. The governor of Jalisco, Aristotle Sandoval, advised people to avoid outdoor activities and to be particularly alert to the potential ill effects on children and the elderly.

Context

Forest fires are common this time of year throughout Mexico due to slash-and-burn agricultural practices in which farmers burn leftover plant materials and weeds to prepare arable land. These fires can often get out of control and spread rapidly. Increasing temperatures and drier weather also contributes to forest fires during this time of year.

Advice

Individuals in affected areas are advised to closely monitor the situation, to adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), to confirm travel reservations, and to limit strenuous outdoor activity for health reasons.