18 Oct 2022 | 02:17 PM UTC
Mexico: Adverse weather conditions are forecast across much of the country through at least Oct. 21
Severe weather conditions are forecast across much of Mexico through at least Oct. 21. Flooding and associated disruptions are possible.
Event
A combination of weather systems are forecast to bring adverse weather conditions to many parts of Mexico through at least Oct. 21. A cold front moving southward over northeastern and eastern parts of the country is expected to interact with a tropical wave moving over central and southern Mexico bring intense rainfall to central, eastern, and southern regions Oct. 18-19. Daily rainfall totals of 15-25 cm (6-10 inches) are possible in parts of Puebla, Veracruz, and Oaxaca states Oct. 18 and Veracruz and Tabasco states Oct. 19. Showers may be accompanied by thunderstorms and possible hail and heavy downpours could trigger rising river levels, flooding, and landslides in affected areas. The cold air mass associated with the front will also drive a stream of cold northeasterly winds known as a 'Norte' event. The Norte event will bring strong winds and rough seas to eastern and southern coastal regions, with winds gusts of 60-110 kph (37-68 mph) and waves of up to 6 meters (20 feet) possible along the coasts of Veracruz, Tamaulipas, and Tabasco, as well as the Isthmus and Gulf of Tehuantepec Oct. 18-20. The cold air mass and Norte event will also lead to a drop in temperatures across northern, northeastern, central, and eastern parts of the country over the coming days.
The cold front is expected to move over the Yucatan Peninsula Oct. 20, bringing downpours to the region, before moving away from the country into the western Caribbean Sea Oct. 21. A low-pressure system with the potential for cyclonic development off the southwest coast is also forecast to bring showers, strong winds, and rough seas to western coastal regions Oct. 19-21.
Hazardous Conditions
Heavy rainfall could trigger flash and areal flooding in some areas. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water and in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas. Power outages could occur throughout the affected areas.
Transport
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout affected regions. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles.
Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at airports across affected regions. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
