Mexico weather: Tropical storms and drought impact multiple regions

Mexico is experiencing significant weather volatility, characterized by both intense rainfall and severe drought. In the southeast, a combination of a trough over the Yucatán Peninsula and Tropical Wave 41 is triggering heavy storms, electrical activity, and potential flooding in states such as Campeche, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo. Authorities have warned of sudden afternoon storms that cause traffic chaos and local flooding.

In the Pacific, the National Hurricane Center is monitoring a low-pressure area south of the Gulf of Tehuantepec that has a 40% chance of developing into a tropical cyclone within 48 hours, potentially named ‘Rachel’. This follows the activity of Hurricane Polo, a category 5 storm in the Pacific.

Conversely, much of southern Mexico is struggling with water scarcity. In Oaxaca, 171 municipalities are facing varying degrees of drought, impacting maize crops. Similarly, 84% of Morelos is experiencing temporary dryness, with 10% of the state under moderate drought conditions. Conagua reports that Quintana Roo, Chiapas, and Guerrero also face high percentages of drought-affected territory.