Mexico is facing severe weather conditions as Cold Front 25 blankets the northern parts of the country with plummeting temperatures, snowfall, and rain. The phenomenon, first noted by the Servicio Meteorológico Nacional (SMN) on January 25, 2025, is expected to peak from January 28 through January 31, with temperatures plunging as low as -15°C.
According to the SMN, the current cold front is driven by complex weather systems, including cyclonic patterns and polar jet streams, which are interacting to create winter conditions across multiple states. Areas most affected include Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, and Durango. The northern regions are bracing for strong winds, possible snow, and freezing rain.
Residents of Sonora are particularly urged to take precautions, especially as Froylán Gámez Gamboa, the head of the state’s Secretariat of Education and Culture, announced adjustments to school schedules. From January 28 to January 30, classes are to start one hour later and will end earlier for safety reasons. "We urge parents to send their children bundled up for school to protect their health against these severe weather conditions," Gámez Gamboa stated.
Temperatures are forecasted to drop substantially, with certain mountainous areas expected to experience freezing conditions—temperatures may reach between -10 and -15 degrees Celsius. This cold front also brings the threat of icy conditions, prompting warnings from the SMN to avoid travel if possible and to remain alert to local advisories.
The SMN predicts the following temperature ranges for affected states: Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, and Durango will see lows of -10 to -15 degrees Celsius during the coldest period. Meanwhile, areas including Baja California Sur and Michoacán may register temperatures between -5 and 0 degrees Celsius.
Accurate forecasts also indicate possible snowfalls. Reports suggest snowfall could occur particularly at higher elevations, as indicated by predictions of ice and sleet. Mexican authorities urge the public to stay informed and adhere to health warnings to avoid potential cold-related illnesses.
From January 27 to January 31, the following conditions are expected:
- Monday, January 27: Temperatures -10 to -5°C with potential frost.
- Tuesday, January 28: Continuation of freezing impacts with similar low temperatures.
- Wednesday, January 29: Frigid conditions anticipated, primarily affecting regional mountainous areas.
- Thursday, January 30: Predicted lowest temperatures for the week, with significant frost warnings.
- Friday, January 31: Continued cold snaps, with temperatures sustaining lows of -10 to -5°C.
Wind advisories have also been issued as gusts reach between 50 and 70 km/h across northern Mexico, intensifying the chill. This strong wind coupled with precipitation increases the chance of accidents, requiring drivers to exercise caution, especially on mountainous roads.
Aside from temperature-related concerns, heavy rainfall is expected across parts of northern Mexico. This includes states like Coahuila and Nuevo León, where residents could see flooding or landslides. "The heavy rains could also create hazardous conditions on the roads," warned the SMN.
On the sunny side, as the cold front moves away, higher temperatures are expected to emerge across southern regions of Mexico. Areas such as Jalisco, Colima, and Michoacán could experience warmth with highs approaching 40°C later this week.
Considering these drastic weather shifts, residents across Mexico are advised to prepare adequately, monitor updates from meteorological services, and heed local safety guidelines. It is imperative to brace for the timing of Cold Front 25 and to take the necessary precautions to safeguard health and well-being during this exceptionally cold weather period.
Overall, the impact of Cold Front 25 serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather and its capacity to affect daily life across vast regions of the country.