Mexico: Adverse weather conditions forecast across much of the country through at least Dec. 4

Adverse weather conditions are forecast across much of Mexico through at least Dec. 4. A cold front is expected to move southward from northern Mexico over eastern and southeastern regions in the coming days, bringing showers, storms, and strong winds to northern, central, eastern, and southern regions. The front will draw in a mass of cold air behind it, leading to a drop in temperatures over much of the country; snowfall and sleet are possible over mountain peaks in central and eastern Mexico. The front will also drive a surge of cold winds known as a Norte event, which will bring strong gusts and rough seas to eastern coastal areas and the Gulf and Isthmus of Tehuantepec; winds gusting up to 90 kph (56 mph) and waves up to 4 meters (13 feet) are possible in affected areas. A separate cold front will also bring showers to northwestern regions Dec. 1 and a low-pressure channel will cause heavy rainfall over parts of southern and western Mexico over the coming days.

Daily rainfall totals of 15-25 cm (6-10 inches) are expected in parts of Chiapas, Tabasco, and Veracruz states Dec. 3 and 7.5-15 cm (3-6 inches) in Hidalgo, Puebla, San Luis Potosi, and Tamaulipas Dec. 2-3. Veracruz Dec. 2, Campeche and Oaxaca Dec. 3-4, and Chiapas, Tabasco, and Veracruz Dec. 4. The heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

The severe weather could contribute to transport disruptions throughout affected regions. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Severe weather may also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations along the Pacific and Gulf of Mexico coasts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.