The holiday season is just around the corner, and Christmas 2024 is shaping up to be both festive and weather-affected across Venezuela. According to the Instituto Nacional de Meteorología e Hidrología (INAMEH), the weather forecast for December 25, 2024, indicates stable weather for most parts of the country. Despite this, scattered rains are expected, particularly in the southern regions and mountainous areas.
For the early hours of Christmas Day, light rain is anticipated in southern Venezuela, especially affecting states like Guayana Esequiba, Bolívar, and Amazonas, as well as regions around Lake Maracaibo, attributed to the presence of stratiform cloudiness. Throughout the day, these rain showers may persist but will likely decrease in intensity.
By the afternoon and evening, precipitation could slightly intensify again, particularly in regions such as Guayana Esequiba, Bolívar, Amazonas, Delta Amacuro, the Andes, and Zulia, though these are not expected to be heavy downpours. Rural and mountainous areas might face some challenges due to adverse weather conditions. Meanwhile, the capital, Gran Caracas, which includes the District Capital, Miranda, and La Guaira, will experience mostly cloudy skies with minimal chances of rain during the morning and afternoon. Temperatures will range from 19°C to 30°C.
Shopping centers across Maracaibo are buzzing with excitement as locals partake in last-minute Christmas shopping. Streets filled with shoppers highlight the city's vibrant spirit during this festive season. It’s said the city center is 'bursting at the seams' as individuals flock to buy clothes, shoes, gifts, and ingredients to prepare traditional Christmas meals. The atmosphere on Christmas Eve is nothing short of electric, as many people rush to fulfill the tradition of wearing new outfits for Christmas celebrations.
The streets around major shopping centers like Gran Bazar and Cima have become nearly impassable with crowds. Shoppers are seen loaded with bags filled with everything from groceries for the Christmas dinner to toys for the tradition of delivering gifts from Niño Jesús. Beyond festive treats, electronics and new clothing have become popular items as well, emphasizing the cultural practice of 'estrenos' or new attire.
One shopper shared, "It's the best day of December, and you just can’t miss out on the fun of shopping for Christmas presents!" The hot sun adds to the excitement, with crowds undeterred by the heat as they brave the busy shopping lanes.
While the thrill of shopping permeates the air, it’s worth noting the contrasting experiences some families have had. The joy of Christmas was overshadowed for certain households by fire emergencies, highlighting the unpredictability of this festive season. Reports from local authorities indicate multiple fire incidents occurring shortly after midnight on December 25.
The first emergency call to the General Volunteer Firefighters of Peru came just two seconds past midnight as fires broke out, including one involving residential structures. The aftermath was busy for the firefighters, prompted to respond to various incidents across the capital, highlighting the importance of safety during holiday celebrations.
From the joyful celebrations filled with shopping and new traditions to urgent situations warranting emergency responses, Christmas 2024 is set to be memorable for Venezuelans. Preparation for the cultural aspects of the season continues amid the weather variables, as communities come together to celebrate this special time of year.
