Under a clear sky, with colorful umbrellas trying to provide shade for pedestrians in the Historic Center, Mérida is experiencing intense heat, with temperatures around 40 degrees Celsius. This surge in temperature has led to a significant increase in the consumption of water and cold beverages. Local merchants report that the rising thermometer has boosted sales of water, ice, and hydrating drinks, while also raising alarms about the risks associated with dehydration.
Aldo Chávez, a grocery store owner in the Jesús Carranza neighborhood, shared how the high temperatures have increased his sales. "People come into my store to wait for the bus in the chairs I set up, but they also take the opportunity to buy their water or soda. Sometimes I even run out of ice by mid-afternoon," he commented.
This uptick in consumption is also evident in neighborhoods where purified water vendors operate on motorcycles. One vendor, who preferred to remain anonymous, stated that he is overwhelmed with orders. "With the heat, people drink more, and we can’t keep up. I’ve even asked my boss to put a canopy on my motorcycle because being out in the direct sun all day is tough," he expressed while delivering a jug of water.
In downtown Mérida, a young cyclist was seen drinking a bottle of electrolytes. "I ride my bike everywhere, and today the heat is really intense. I drink this to avoid dehydration or suffering a heat stroke because it's happened to me before," she said.
General practitioner Roger Martínez Asencio warned that extreme temperatures like those recorded in Mérida can have serious consequences if precautions aren’t taken. "Severe dehydration can lead to dizziness, fainting, and even failure of vital organs. Heat stroke is a medical emergency that can be fatal, so it’s crucial to stay well-hydrated, avoid the sun during peak hours, and wear cool clothing," he detailed.
According to the weather forecast, the heat wave is expected to continue in Yucatán's capital over the next few days, with maximum temperatures potentially reaching 42 degrees due to a high-pressure system. However, starting Saturday, May 10, 2025, some thunderstorms are predicted, which could provide slight relief from the sweltering heat. Temperatures are expected to drop to a maximum of 34 degrees, thanks to the influx of humidity and the possible influence of frontal systems.
On Thursday, May 8, 2025, the weather forecast indicated hot to extremely hot conditions in Yucatán, with maximum temperatures ranging from 37°C to 42°C and a thermal sensation between 44°C to 46°C. Wind gusts of up to 70 km/h were expected along the coast, with little chance of rain. Authorities urged residents to take precautions to avoid health risks.
People were advised to stay hydrated, avoid sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., wear light clothing, increase their intake of Vitamin C, and seek medical attention for heatstroke symptoms.
Moreover, Protección Civil de Yucatán (Procivy) reported that the effects of a trough preceding the arrival of cold front No. 42 will begin to be felt from the night of Friday, May 9, 2025, and into the dawn of Saturday, May 10, 2025. They warned that this trough could lead to the formation of waterspouts and marine tornadoes in the coastal area.
Strong rains are expected across much of the state, accompanied by wind gusts that could exceed 70 km/h. On Thursday, temperatures were forecasted to remain hot to very hot, with maximums of 36 degrees in the coastal area, 41 degrees in Mérida and its metropolitan area, and 39 degrees elsewhere in the state.
Meteorologist Juan Antonio Palma Solís cautioned that cold front No. 42 "is coming with everything" and will cause a radical change in the climate in Yucatán on the approaching weekend. He specified that the cold front will bring strong rains, electrical activity, isolated hail, very strong gusts of wind, and possible waterspouts on the coast.
He predicted that maximum temperatures on Sunday, May 11, 2025, will drop to 32 degrees, marking a significant relief from the extreme heat experienced in the preceding days. Palma Solís believes this phenomenon might also indicate an early start to the rainy season in the region, which officially begins on May 15.
As rainfall from May 10 to 14 is expected to establish a new climate pattern, he advised the public to exercise caution during the upcoming weekend, particularly with celebrations planned for Mother's Day. "Many people will be out celebrating, but it’s better to have gatherings indoors. Wet pavement, lightning, and strong winds can pose risks if you’re outdoors," he concluded.
In summary, the intense heat currently gripping Mérida is prompting increased sales of hydrating products, while health officials emphasize the importance of staying hydrated and cautious during peak temperatures. With a cold front on the horizon, residents are advised to prepare for potential storms and a welcome respite from the heat.
