On December 21, 2024, Mexico welcomed the winter solstice, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year. Occurring at 03:20 hours, this astronomical phenomenon is not just significant for its timing but also heralds the onset of the coldest season across the northern hemisphere.
The day signifies more than just the end of autumn. It is steeped in cultural traditions, with many people around the world recognizing the solstice as a time to renew energies and celebrate the return of gradually lengthening days. This year, the atmosphere felt especially frigid as well, thanks to forecasts predicting severe weather conditions.
The National Meteorological Service (SMN) announced expectations for heavy rainfall across several states, including Hidalgo, Nuevo León, Puebla, San Luis Potosí, Tamaulipas, and Veracruz. Alongside rain, the SMN indicated regions such as Campeche, Chiapas, and Mexico City would experience lighter rain and showers.
Snowfall was also on the table, with chances of sleet or snow reported at high altitudes, particularly affecting areas like Cofre de Perote, Iztaccíhuatl, and the Nevado de Toluca. Due to these forecasts, residents were warned to prepare for considerable temperature drops and strong winds, which could reach up to 90 kilometers per hour. This weather is attributed to the influence of low-pressure channels over eastern and southeastern Mexico coupled with humid air from the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.
Interestingly, the solstice offers more than just weather changes; it holds historical significance. Monumental structures such as Stonehenge and Machu Picchu have been known to align with the solstice, showcasing humanity's long-standing fascination with celestial events.
Across the nation, particularly places like Zacatecas, residents were greeted with the first snowfall of the season on this solstice date. A white blanket covered the Milpillas de la Sierra community, celebrating the charm of winter with picturesque landscapes and vibrant holiday cheer.
The SOL, the most powerful entity influencing this phenomenon, takes its place at the Tropic of Capricorn on the winter solstice, leading to different light levels across the globe. With the northern hemisphere tilted away from the sun, it results in minimized sunlight and colder temperatures, whereas the Southern Hemisphere enjoys the peak of summer.
By the time the solstice passes, days will begin to gradually lengthen, sparking renewed hope for sunlight and warmth. Despite the immediate cold, people are reminded it's merely the beginning of the seasonal transition, with summertime set to be reached around June 20, 2025, when daylight will peak.
Authorities have issued health and safety tips for the winter season. Residents are encouraged to avoid sudden temperature changes, wrap up warmly with hats, gloves, and scarves, and be cautious of their health, especially during the first few days of winter. Precautions like staying hydrated, eating nutritious foods, and monitoring health conditions should be adhered to as colder weather leads to varied health challenges.
The arrival of winter also brings awareness of climate patterns and highlights the need for preparations across the country as predictions indicate up to 48 frontal systems and 7 winter storms may affect Mexico over the coming months.
Overall, the winter solstice is as much about celebrating the ancient practices of observing celestial events as it is about preparing for the realities of colder weather. Whether by curling up with blankets or enjoying warm meals, this season evokes the feeling of warmth within communities, contrasting the frigid weather outside, reminding all of the cycles of nature.
With the solstice marking the transition to winter, people will now look toward the returning warmth of spring, knowing it is only months away. Until then, acknowledging both the significance of the solstice and recognizing the practical measures necessary for colder weather will make this time of year more manageable and even enjoyable.
