Severe weather conditions are currently gripping Cancún as Cold Front 24 unleashes heavy rains, strong winds, and electrical activity across the region. The cold front, stationed over the northern Yucatan Peninsula, has prompted authorities to take emergency measures to counter its effects.
According to the Servicio Meteorológico Nacional (SMN), the weather outlook for January 21, 2025, indicates partly cloudy to overcast skies, accompanied by strong to intense rainfall and elevated electrical activity. Residents are advised to brace for possible flooding due to these severe weather patterns.
Mayor Ana Paty Peralta has mobilized city departments to mitigate the aftermath of the front, instructing the Dirección General de Servicios Públicos. This department has deployed about 200 staff members to clean drains and roadways affected by debris. "La limpieza de desechos de las rejillas, bocas de pozos de absorción... comenzó desde antier para evitar encharcamientos...,” reported the Dirección de Servicios Públicos, highlighting the urgency of the operations.
Alongside the cleanup efforts, the Coordinación Estatal de Protección Civil (Coeproc) has issued warnings about the intense weather conditions, noting potential wind gusts reaching up to 50 km/h. Meteorologist Fabián Torres explained the situation, stating, "...la llegada de una masa polar de aire frío que desplazará los aires calientes hacia el Caribe...". This shift is expected to bring more precipitation over the coming days, compounding the risk for local communities.
The impact of Cold Front 24 extends beyond the immediate weather, affecting the local economy as well. Reports indicate the closure of ports to small vessels, significantly impacting approximately 150 boatmen and 600 fishermen from the northern municipality of Lázaro Cárdenas. "Se registrarán vientos del norte de entre 15 y 25 nudos en las costas de Holbox...", warned the Capitanía de Puerto, reflecting the port's precautionary restrictions.
For the municipality of Benito Juárez, the past two days have seen the collection of around 15 tons of refuse clogging drainage systems—mostly organic waste such as leaves and grass. The clean-up efforts across several key arteries, including avenidas Bonampak and Niños Héroes, aim to prevent large-scale flooding.
Despite the cold front losing some intensity as it approaches the Caribbean Sea, it has reduced tourism activity significantly. Tourists have opted to stay within their hotels due to the inclement weather, leading to decreased patronage of local attractions. While the port is officially open for larger vessels, many fishermen are still hesitant to venture out to sea.
With rainfall predicted to persist, local authorities are on high alert, continuously monitoring conditions. The Dirección Municipal de Protección Civil has mandated precautions, particularly at regional beaches, where flags indicate safe swimming conditions. "Las playas de la zona hotelera que tienen bandera roja, lo que indica la prohibición de acceso al mar...", were among the directives released to the public.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed via official channels and avoid discarding waste on the streets to reduce the likelihood of flooding. The city continues to battle the consequences set by Cold Front 24, and as authorities implement preventative measures, the outlook remains uncertain with additional forecasts predicting heavy rainfall and stormy conditions.
Going forward, Cancún residents are advised to maintain caution when driving on wet roads, especially as the weather remains treacherous and unpredictable. With emergency services ready to respond—having already dealt with fallen trees and electrical hazards—safety remains the priority for all involved during this challenging weather phase.