Mexico: Adverse weather conditions forecast across much of the country through at least Nov. 21

Severe weather conditions are forecast across much of Mexico through at least Nov. 21. A cold front will move southward over eastern and southeastern regions over the coming days, bringing heavy rainfall and thunderstorms to central, eastern, northeastern, and southeastern regions. Strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. The front will draw in a cold air mass, leading to a drop in temperatures across much of the country, with snowfall and sleet possible over elevated areas of central Mexico. The front will also generate a surge of cold winds known as a Norte event, bringing strong wind gusts and rough seas to eastern, southeastern, and southern coastal areas. A low-pressure channel and the monsoon trough will bring further showers and storms to central, southern, and western regions over the coming days.

Rainfall totals of 15-25 cm (6-10 inches) are expected in parts of Chiapas, Tabasco, and Veracruz states Nov. 20. Totals of 7.5-15 cm (3-6 inches) are forecast in parts of Puebla and San Luis Potosi Nov. 19-20, Chiapas and Veracruz Nov. 19, and Hidalgo and Oaxaca Nov. 20. Totals of 2.5-7.5 cm (1-3 inches) are expected across other parts of central, eastern, northeastern, southern, southeastern, and western Mexico Oct. 19-21. The heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. Strong winds may generate dust storms in central and northern regions and rough seas in coastal areas.

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 affected areas. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations 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.