Mexico: Extreme temperatures in much of the country July 25 /update 1

Event

The National Meteorological Service (SMN) continues to warn of extreme heat in much of the country for Wednesday, July 25, notably in the north. Temperatures surpassing 45°C (113°F) are forecast for parts of Baja California, Sonora, and Nuevo León. Highs of up to 45°C (113°F) are forecast for Baja California Sur, Sinaloa, Michoacán, Guerrero, Oaxaca, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Hidalgo, Tamaulipas, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo. Highs of up to 40°C (104°F) are forecast for  Nayarit, Jalisco, Colima, Chiapas, Durango, Zacatecas, San Luis Potosí, Morelos, Veracruz, Tabasco, and Campeche.

Furthermore, violent thunderstorms (and possible hail) are expected in the following states: Sonora, Chihuahua, Durango, Sinaloa, Nayarit, Jalisco, Michoacán, and Chiapas.

Related travel disruptions, hazardous driving conditions, and power outages are possible.

Context

These high temperatures could be hazardous to health, particularly for the elderly, young children, and people suffering from chronic illnesses such as cardiac issues, hypertension, and diabetes. Symptoms of heatstroke include high fever, hot, red, dry skin, headache, nausea, drowsiness, intense thirst, confusion, convulsions, and loss of consciousness.

A period of extremely high temperatures, known as the canícula, is common in Mexico during the summer months. Typically the Yucatan Peninsula, the south, and southeastern regions are most impacted, according to the SMN.

Advice

Individuals in affected areas are advised to keep abreast of local weather forecasts, avoid strenuous outdoor activity, remain indoors as much as possible between noon and 16:00 when temperatures tend to peak, remain well hydrated (with sugar-free, non-alcoholic beverages), and wear loose, light-colored clothing. Do not hesitate to seek medical attention if displaying symptoms of heatstroke.