On Thursday, April 17, 2025, Baja California is bracing for a series of unstable atmospheric conditions that could significantly impact the region. The Comisión Nacional del Agua (Conagua) has issued a warning about a variety of weather phenomena expected to unfold throughout the day, including high waves, strong winds, possible dust devils, light rain, and a notable drop in temperatures in certain areas.
Starting from dawn, residents can expect a cold environment with minimum temperatures plummeting between -10 and -5 degrees Celsius, particularly in mountainous regions where frost is likely. The early hours will also see the presence of fog banks along the western slope, which could severely reduce visibility, complicating travel on strategic roadways.
As the day progresses, the weather is anticipated to shift towards a more temperate to warm environment, although the possibility of medium cloudiness and isolated rain showers, ranging from 0.1 to 5 mm, remains. This complex weather scenario is attributed to a combination of a dry line over northern Mexico, a trough, and high-altitude jet streams that typically enhance instability and promote the formation of short-lived convective systems capable of producing electrical discharges.
Conagua forecasts that winds from the west and southwest will range from 40 to 50 km/h, with gusts potentially reaching up to 90 km/h. These winds could lead to dust storms, especially in arid areas lacking vegetation. The strong winds pose additional risks, such as uprooting trees and damaging outdoor advertisements, while also diminishing visibility on fast-moving roads, increasing the vulnerability of drivers.
Along the coast, the western region of the peninsula will face waves between 1 to 2 meters high, prompting caution for smaller vessels and those engaged in fishing or recreational activities along the shoreline.
In Tijuana, the day begins under cloudy skies, with stormy showers intensifying in the early morning hours. Temperatures are expected to rise to 18°C around 14:00, starting from a cooler 12°C. The winds will be coming from the west, with moderate gusts reaching up to 34 km/h by the afternoon.
Conversely, Mexicali will experience a different weather pattern, starting with passing clouds that quickly clear. Temperatures in Mexicali are forecasted to range from 15°C to 27°C, peaking around 16:00. As night falls, the winds from the northwest will strengthen, with gusts reaching up to 61 km/h.
Tecate is predicted to remain under cloudy skies throughout the day, with early morning storms expected. The temperatures will fluctuate between 9°C and 16°C, with the peak occurring around 15:00. Winds from the west will be moderate, reaching gusts of up to 42 km/h.
Ensenada will also see a mostly cloudy day, with showers and potential storms in the early morning. The temperature will range from 13°C to 18°C, with west winds reaching 35 km/h in the morning.
Rosarito is expected to have similar conditions, with widespread cloud cover and nighttime storms. The maximum temperature is anticipated to reach 17°C, with moderate west winds gusting around 25 km/h in the afternoon.
La Rumorosa will experience a cold and cloudy day, with weak rains expected in the early morning. Temperatures will vary between 6°C and 14°C, and a very strong southwest wind will be present, with intense gusts of up to 82 km/h in the afternoon.
San Quintín will show a partially covered sky in the morning, with temperatures ranging from 11°C to 19°C. The west wind will create gusts between 20 and 39 km/h.
Finally, San Felipe will enjoy a clear sky, with temperatures climbing from 15°C to 22°C, accompanied by southeast winds with gusts between 19 and 34 km/h.
Overall, Baja California is facing a day of rapidly changing weather conditions that require caution, particularly in areas like La Rumorosa and Mexicali, where the winds are expected to be particularly strong. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather alerts and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
