17 Apr 2023 | 11:07 AM UTC
Mexico: Adverse weather forecast over southeastern regions April 17
Severe weather forecast across southeastern Mexico April 17. Possible flooding and associated disruptions.
Event
Severe weather is forecast across much of southeastern Mexico April 17. A cold front over the southwestern Gulf of Mexico and the Yucatan Peninsula is forecast to bring heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and possible hail storms across the region. Rainfall totals of 7.5-15 cm (3-6 inches) are expected over parts of Chiapas and Tabasco states. Totals of 5-7.5 cm (2-3 inches) are forecast over parts of Campeche, Quintana Roo, and Veracruz, and 2.5-5 cm (1-2 inches) over parts of Puebla, Oaxaca, and Yucatan. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes in the affected areas. Strong winds are also expected in the region, with gusts of 60-70 kph (37-43 mph) likely over the Gulf and Isthmus of Tehuantepec and 30-50 kph (19-31 mph) along the coasts of Campeche, Tabasco, Veracruz, and Yucatan states. The front is expected to move away from the country into the Caribbean Sea April 18 and weather conditions in the region are likely to improve.
Hazardous Conditions
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 located 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 the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
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.
The disruptive weather will likely cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the region. 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 possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
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.
