Campeche, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo are experiencing a significant drop in temperatures due to the passage of Cold Front No. 32, driven by an Arctic air mass dominating the Gulf of Mexico and the Yucatán Peninsula.
In Campeche, thermometers have registered lows of 11°C and highs barely reaching 22°C, while in Yucatán, daytime temperatures have reached 18°C, with an even lower wind chill due to the north wind. In Quintana Roo, municipalities such as Chetumal and Cancún have recorded 19°C, a figure that surprises residents accustomed to warm and humid climates.
The weather system has brought north winds of up to 40 km/h, intermittent rain, and high waves along the coasts of Carmen, Progreso, and Cancún, limiting fishing and tourism activities. Civil protection authorities recommend dressing warmly, protecting children and the elderly, and avoiding small boats during the “Norte” event.
Although temperatures of 18°C or 19°C are considered mild in other regions of the country, they are perceived as cold in the Yucatán Peninsula for several reasons:
Typical climate: In Campeche, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo, minimum temperatures usually range from 22°C to 25°C, so a drop to 18°C represents a sudden change.
Physiological adaptation: The population is accustomed to living in warm and humid environments, which makes the body more sensitive to temperature drops. Wind chill: The north wind and humidity increase the perception of cold, generating discomfort even with moderate temperatures.
Infrastructure: Homes and public spaces are not designed for cold climates, which intensifies the feeling of chill indoors. Yucatán will face its longest cold spell in years: 13 consecutive days due to cold front 30.
Social and economic impact:
Education: Low attendance has been reported in several schools in the region due to the morning chill.
Fishing and tourism: High waves have limited small boat navigation and affected tourism activities in Carmen, Progreso, and Cancún.
Health: Cases of respiratory infections have increased, according to preliminary reports from health authorities.
Source: poresto
