On April 20, 2025, the State Coordination of Civil Protection and Risk Management (CEPCyGR) issued a warning regarding an intensifying heat wave in Oaxaca, Mexico. The agency reported that temperatures could reach as high as 40 degrees Celsius in certain regions, particularly along the Coast, Isthmus, Cuenca del Papaloapan, and Sierra de Flores Magón.
According to a statement from the National Water Commission (Conagua), a combination of a low-pressure channel and moist air from the Pacific will lead to partly cloudy skies in the morning, with increased cloudiness by the afternoon. This weather pattern is expected to bring isolated showers, electrical activity, and a possibility of hail in mountainous areas. Winds will predominantly blow from the south and southeast, with strong gusts during rain, potentially causing localized dust devils.
CEPCyGR provided specific temperature forecasts for various regions in Oaxaca. In the Valles Centrales, temperatures are expected to range from a minimum of 13 degrees to a maximum of 37 degrees Celsius. The Istmo de Tehuantepec will see temperatures from 23 to 38 degrees, while the Cuenca del Papaloapan is predicted to reach between 19 and 40 degrees. Along the Costa, temperatures will vary from 22 to 38 degrees, and in the Mixteca, from 14 to 37 degrees. The Sierra de Flores Magón is forecasted to have temperatures between 15 and 38 degrees, while the Sierra de Juárez will range from 9 to 33 degrees, and the Sierra Sur from 11 to 34 degrees.
As the heat wave continues, CEPCyGR has urged residents to take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses. Recommendations include avoiding prolonged sun exposure between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM, staying hydrated—particularly for older adults and children—and refraining from lighting fires or burning waste in grassland areas. The agency emphasized the importance of adhering to safety guidelines issued by Civil Protection and Port Captaincies.
In their advisory, CEPCyGR also noted that the intense solar radiation expected throughout the day poses additional risks to public health. They encouraged the public to monitor official channels for updates on weather conditions, which can be followed on their Facebook page @CEPCYGRGobOax and on X (formerly Twitter) @CEPCyGR_GobOax.
The ongoing heat wave is not an isolated phenomenon, as similar weather patterns have been observed in various parts of Mexico. The combination of high temperatures and humidity can lead to discomfort and health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. The forecast for the coming days suggests that the heat wave may persist, prompting further advisories from local authorities.
In addition to the heat wave, a weak cold front is moving through the northwest of the country, which could lead to severe weather conditions in northern states. This front may bring contrasting weather patterns, including cooler temperatures and potential storms, highlighting the variability of Mexico's climate during this time of year.
As the situation develops, residents are reminded to stay informed and prepared for changing weather conditions. Emergency services are on alert, ready to respond to any incidents that may arise due to the extreme heat or subsequent weather changes.
The impact of climate change continues to be a significant factor in the frequency and intensity of such weather events. As temperatures rise globally, regions like Oaxaca are experiencing more extreme weather patterns, which can have far-reaching consequences for agriculture, water supply, and public health.
In conclusion, the current heat wave in Oaxaca serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and the need for communities to adapt to these changing conditions. Authorities are committed to providing timely information and support to ensure public safety during this period of extreme weather.
