Cold Weather and Cultural Initiatives Shape Hidalgo State's December Events
Hidalgo State is experiencing chilly weather across diverse regions, according to the Mexican National Meteorological Service (SMN) and the National Water Commission (Conagua). On December 27, the forecast predicts cold to very cold temperatures, particularly during the morning and evening hours, with lows potentially dropping between -5 and 0 degrees Celsius, especially in elevated areas.
A stationary cold front number 18 positioned over northeastern Mexico, combined with the polar jet stream and low-pressure channels, is influencing these climatic conditions. The region may also experience winds ranging from 10 to 20 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 40 km/h. Morning fog is expected due to scattered cloudiness. By afternoon, warmer temperatures are anticipated, mainly in lower regions such as the Valley of Mezquital, where milder weather could prevail, contrasting with the consistently cooler temperatures of the mountainous zones.
Authorities urge residents to take precautions against the low temperatures, especially during the early hours of the day. It is recommended to dress warmly and avoid rapid temperature changes, particularly for vulnerable populations including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.
On top of the weather challenges, Hidalgo faces socioeconomic difficulties as well. According to a federal government's diagnostic report, of the 2,477 municipalities across Mexico, 1,477 are categorized as experiencing high levels of poverty and severe violence issues. Among these, 41 of the 84 municipalities within Hidalgo are particularly affected.
On December 24, the Federal Official Gazette published plans implemented by the Ministry of Welfare, set to take effect from January, targeting these municipalities. The reported data highlights issues such as high marginalization, severe social lag, and limited access to basic infrastructure services, which are rampant within the identified territories.
Beginning January, 37 different federal agencies and state governments will collaborate to execute various programs aimed at restoring peace across the nation, with special attention to the identified municipalities. Notably, across Mexico, approximately 173.2 homicides occur per 100,000 inhabitants. Certain states, including Colima and Campeche, are marked as priority areas due to the intersection of poverty and violence.
The analysis shows 125 municipalities where over half the population lives within extreme poverty conditions. This scourge is particularly severe within states such as Oaxaca (73 municipalities), Chiapas (21), and Guerrero (16). Concurrently, transportation infrastructure remains deficient, with regions like Chiapas, Chihuahua, Oaxaca, and Sonora having municipalities lacking proper roads.
Rosa Isela Rodríguez, the Secretary of the Interior, has announced 100 new programs focused on enhancing conditions across the national territory. These efforts are yet another attempt to tackle intertwined issues of poverty and insecurity plaguing many parts of the country, including Hidalgo.
Despite these somber statistics, there are rays of hope within the cultural scene of Hidalgo. Alejandro Velázquez Mendoza, head of the Governor’s Office, announced the launch of the "Cine en Movimiento" project, which is part of the Transformation Route Service Fairs. This initiative aims to showcase cinematic works created by local talent, offering free film screenings to residents of all ages across the 84 municipalities, including impactful short films.
Velázquez Mendoza expressed delight at the positive reception from audiences of all ages, explaining how this project has allowed residents to engage with various narratives through the lens of local cinema. Some filmmakers involved include Francisco Durán, who presented “Nada es para siempre, Pas de Deux, 7 instantes para recordar a mi madre,” and Israel Ñonthe, whose series “Itacate” highlights the rich culinary and cultural identity of the Valley of Mezquital.
Notably, La Matatena, a children’s cinema association, contributed with the stop motion piece “Nita La Minita,” emphasizing early cinematic education. Fátima Salinas, also part of the initiative, presented several short films, such as “IAVSH1M4N” and “Cómo hablar con tu perro acerca de la libertad,” showcasing the diverse creative talents within Hidalgo.
This cultural initiative aligns with Governor Julio Menchaca Salazar’s directives to promote cultural access and offerings throughout the state. The project aims not only to entertain but to inspire local communities and promote artistic expression.
Besides the cinema initiative, the Culture Department is rolling out additional activities as part of the Cultural Services module, which includes the "Mobile Library"—a space for encouraging reading through activities and local author contests. This collaborative effort seeks to nurture the imagination of students, youth, and adults, making literature more accessible to Hidalgo’s residents.
While Hidalgo faces pressing challenges related to climate and socioeconomic issues, both grassroots efforts and government programs indicate the region’s determination to adapt, thrive, and preserve its unique cultural identity. These initiatives offer hope amid the struggles, enriching the local community with art and advocating for enhanced infrastructure and safety measures for its residents.
