San Luis Potosí is currently under the grip of extreme winter weather, marked by intense cold and potential snowfall, significantly affecting the region. According to Dr. José Antonio Ávalos Lozano, coordinator at the Laboratorio Nacional de Variabilidad Climática, Teledetección y Evaluación de Riesgos Agrícolas y Ambientales (Variclim) of the Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí (UASLP), these conditions are part of the natural atmospheric dynamics typical for this time of year and are closely linked to the alteration of the polar vortex.
This phenomenon is causing temperatures to plummet, with the coldest nights expected on January 21 and 22, when temperatures could drop to as low as 3 degrees Celsius. Forecasts indicate temperatures will remain low throughout the week, with San Luis Potosí experiencing its coolest weather this season.
According to the Servicio Meteorológico Nacional (SMN), the cold front number 24 coupled with polar air masses will bring temperatures down to frightening lows. Northern states including Chihuahua, Coahuila, and Durango are bracing for the most severe weather, experiencing temperatures even below -15 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, areas within San Luis Potosí are anticipated to face sub-zero temperatures, particularly the mountainous regions where temperatures can dip below -10 degrees Celsius.
On the streets of San Luis Potosí, residents are preparing for extreme conditions; areas such as Real de Catorce may witness temperatures plunging under -10 degrees Celsius. The city center itself is expected to see temperatures between 0 and 2 degrees Celsius, and the Huasteca region will see readings around 5 to 7 degrees Celsius.
Dr. Ávalos Lozano explained, "Lo que experimentamos está relacionado con una alteración del vórtice polar. Generalmente, existe una franja que aísla al polo y a sus masas de aire frío del resto del planeta. Sin embargo...se desplaza hacia el sur e inyecta un vórtice sobre las montañas rocosas y las grandes llanuras de Estados Unidos." This describes how the polar vortex, influenced by the dynamics of global weather patterns, can have far-reaching impacts, causing frigid temperatures to move southwards.
The weather conditions are compounded by the presence of light to moderate winds, ranging from 20 to 30 km/h, adding to the chill factor experienced by residents. The SMN has warned of additional cold fronts possibly moving through the region this month, following January’s already severe weather patterns.
Public safety officials are urging the population to take precautionary measures. These include dressing warmly, avoiding sudden changes in temperature, and being alert, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.
Not only does this cold front bring frigid conditions, but it also raises concerns over icy roads. Reports indicate the possibility of icy rains and frosts. Residents are advised to drive cautiously as the conditions may lead to hazardous situations on roads and highways due to freezing temperatures.
"Estos frentes fríos son esenciales para el ecosistema y contribuyen al mantenimiento de ciertos organismos," Dr. Ávalos Lozano noted, highlighting the importance of winter fronts not just as adversities but also as phenomena necessary for ecological balance. Rainfall, albeit freezing, is also beneficial for certain regions, replenishing groundwater sources.
Municipal and state authorities have activated emergency plans. Shelters are being set up to assist those without adequate housing, showing proactive steps to provide safety during these extreme weather events. Their continuous updates and safety measures could significantly prevent adverse impacts on vulnerable communities.
The government continues to monitor the conditions closely, providing recommendations and support where needed. For residents, staying informed through official weather reports released by state authorities is highly encouraged.
Weather improvement is predicted by the weekend, as the polar air is forecasted to shift east toward the United States. Until then, everyone is advised to stay warm, keep informed, and take the necessary precautions against the relentless cold.