13 Mar 2023 | 12:46 PM UTC
Mexico: Adverse weather conditions forecast across eastern and southern regions through at least March 16
Severe weather conditions forecast across eastern and southern Mexico through at least March 16. Flooding and disruptions possible.
Event
Adverse weather conditions are forecast across parts of eastern and southern Mexico through at least March 16. A weather front is expected to move slowly over northeastern and eastern regions March 13 before moving over the Yucatan Peninsula March 14-15 and then dissipating as it heads into the Caribbean Sea March 16. The system will interact with a low-pressure channel and bring heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, strong wind gusts, and possible hail to eastern and southern parts of the country over the coming days. Rainfall totals of 7.5-15 cm (3-6 inches) are possible in parts of Oaxaca, Puebla, and Veracruz states March 14 and totals of 5-7.5 cm (2-3 inches) are possible in parts of Tamaulipas March 13-14, Nuevo Leon March 13, and Chiapas, Hidalgo, and San Luis Potosi March 14. Lesser amounts are forecast across the rest of the affected area over the coming days. The heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes in parts of the affected areas. Winds gusting up to 60 kph (37 mph) are possible in coastal parts of the affected area.
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.
