15 Feb 2021 | 05:38 PM UTC
Mexico: Unusually low temperatures causing power outages in several northern states Feb. 15
Severe weather causing power outages in Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, and Tamaulipas, Mexico, early Feb. 15.
Event
Severe weather is causing widespread power outages across northern Mexico, Feb. 15, with unusually cold temperatures prompting a spike in the load on the utility. According to authorities, at least 400,000 customers lost electricity service early in the day. The National Energy Control Center (Centro Nacional de Control de Energia) has reported that the states of Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, and Tamaulipas are the most affected areas; service had been restored to about 30 percent of affected customers by 0915. Authorities have instructed utility customers in those states, as well as in Sonora, Sinaloa, and Durango, to reduce energy use as much as possible during the coming hours.
The outages will likely continue through at least late Feb. 15 and may extend into early Feb. 16. Business and transport disruptions likely; power cuts could also produce delays at some regional airports.
Advice
Charge all communication and portable electronic devices when possible. Unplug electronic equipment that is not connected to surge protectors. Exercise caution when driving in areas affected by power outages. Ensure that generators are functional if operating in affected areas. Confirm business appointments. Verify that security systems are working, including after power resumes. Follow all security personnel instructions.
