Tamaulipas, Mexico is bracing for severe weather as Cold Front 24 sweeps across the region, prompting state authorities to suspend classes for thousands of students. Starting Tuesday, January 21 and extending through Wednesday, January 22, schools will close to protect children and vulnerable populations from increasingly dangerous temperatures.
Governor Américo Villarreal announced the decision, warning of temperatures potentially dropping to as low as -2°C, with wind chill making it feel significantly colder—between -6°C and -10°C. "Esperamos que la madrugada de hoy, mañana y el miércoles al mediodía se recrudezca esta onda gélida..." the governor remarked, highlighting the urgent need for precautionary measures.
More than 33 municipalities are included in the closure, spanning from the northern cities of Nuevo Laredo and Reynosa to Ciudad Victoria. Schools across these areas have been advised to notify parents and communities frequently about the situation. Albergues, or emergency shelters, are operating throughout the region to accommodate those needing refuge from the dangerous chill. Currently, over 400 individuals have sought shelter, primarily in Reynosa, Nuevo Laredo, and Tampico.
The weather forecast indicates not only frigid temperatures but also the possibility of snowfall—rare for the area. "La combinación del frente frío 24, humedad proveniente del Golfo de México y la onda gélida podría derivar en la caída de nieve y aguanieve," commented Itzia Rangole, with experts closely monitoring developments.
This severe weather event is not just about temperatures. Residents living in more vulnerable conditions, such as those with inadequate heating or shelter, face greater risks. Mónica Meza, 77, indicated she relies on her two blankets to keep warm, yet worries about the heavy moisture in the air which can contribute to the damp cold. "Con dos cobijas me voy a tapar," she shared, showcasing the resilience many locals are embodying.
Elodia Sánchez, also preparing for the impending cold, expressed how the unexpected weather has led her to make her home as defensively warm as possible. "Por ahí donde tengo la cama se mete el aire y me tapo con garras viejas," she remarked, reflecting on both the challenges and the determination of residents confronting the cold.
Emergency services have increased the number of shelters, ensuring they are accessible to those without adequate housing. Protection Civil has urged residents to report any signs of those needing help, especially the homeless, and actively advised everyone to stay informed through official channels. Continuous wind speeds are expected to reach 50 km/h, compounding the severity of the freezing conditions.
Authorities also reported on the closure of specific public spaces due to safety concerns. For example, Ciudad Madero authorities denied entry to intoxicated individuals seeking shelter, aiming to maintain safety for all guests and avoid altercations. "La decisión se tomó para evitar problemas de riñas y otras situaciones que podrían afectar la seguridad de los demás refugiados, especialmente niños y niñas," noted Nefertiti Constantino Guerrero, who oversees the local system of protective services.
This weather phenomenon associated with Cold Front 24 has created not only physical hardships but emotional strains as communities unite to support one another. Residents have been encouraged to check on neighbors and help those less fortunate, as the chilling wave could leave many without basic necessities if conditions worsen.
Weather patterns have also led local schools and health authorities to prepare for possible extended weather events, proactively issuing advisories about the importance of keeping warm and safe.
Public sentiment has swayed between anxiety over health risks associated with the cold and gratitude for community efforts to safeguard the vulnerable. Many speak with hope for brighter days when temperatures will rise again. For now, they navigate the cold with warmth found not only from blankets but from each other.