Central Mexico is bracing for cold temperatures and rain as multiple weather systems converge, dramatically impacting life across the region. The latest forecasts from the Servicio Meteorológico Nacional (SMN) indicate significant cloud cover and low temperatures throughout several states, triggering concerns for both residents and local authorities.
On February 20, 2023, predictions highlighted the onset of cold weather accompanied by intermittent rain, particularly as cold front No. 28 pushes its way across Mexico. Residents can expect minimum temperatures around 6°C (43°F) and maximums peaking at approximately 19°C (66°F). Winds are projected to gust between 13 and 37 km/h, contributing to the chill felt across the region.
Particularly for San Luis Potosí, forecasts for February 21 show partially cloudy skies with cool conditions. The expected high will reach 20°C (68°F) but will dip to around 8°C (46°F) overnight. The potential for rain remains high, with probabilities reaching 49% for brief showers expected to develop during the afternoon. Other parts of Central Mexico, like the Zona Altiplano, will similarly see maximum temperatures of 19°C (66°F) and minimums around 9°C (48°F), alongside promising precipitation prospects.
Meanwhile, heavier rain is anticipated for states like Veracruz and Tabasco, where the SMN has warned of considerable downpours leading to possible flooding. The forecasted rainfall could measure between 50mm to 75mm, especially concentrated around coastal and lowland areas. Further north, the cold front will usher chilly conditions, including temperatures registering below 5°C (41°F) at higher elevations.
"Las bajas temperaturas seguirán afectando el clima..." warned the SMN, indicating the effects of the stationary cold front will persist. The interaction with moist air from the Pacific Ocean may result in additional rainfall across the central and southern territories of Mexico, heightening the likelihood of localized flooding.
Querétaro is among the regions experiencing the brunt of these conditions, with expected temperatures ranging from 4°C (39°F) to 25°C (77°F) and rain forecasted. Sections of the state, particularly mountainous areas, might see temperatures drop as low as minus 5°C (23°F), signaling the need for caution especially on the mornings of February 21-23.
Authorities urge local residents to prepare for weather-related challenges. There’s potential for black ice and frost, especially during early morning hours, increasing risks for vehicular incidents. The local disaster management team is on standby, ready to assist communities facing the severe weather.
Across various states, the SMN has issued rain probabilities ranging from 25% to 75% depending on the area. The Zona Media is expected to remain cool with intervals of showers, emphasizing the importance of staying alerted and following updates from the meteorological service.
Meteorological models suggest continued disruptions due to this cold front, which may stretch through the weekend, bringing with it persistent cloud cover, gusty winds, and chilly temperatures. Residents are advised to keep updated on local forecasts and take necessary steps to safeguard their health and homes.
Therefore, as Central Mexico faces this weather pattern, helpful resources such as local news outlets will play pivotal roles. They will keep citizens informed about changing conditions and provide guidance on how to navigate the wet and cold environment expected over the coming days.
Stay warm, stay dry, and heed the warnings from health authorities and meteorological experts as this cold weather event continues to impact day-to-day life across Central Mexico as we approach the end of February.