Powerful weather system known as the “Tormenta Negra” will unleash dangerous rainstorms across Mexico

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A powerful weather system known as the “Tormenta Negra” is approaching Mexico, bringing torrential rains, hail, strong winds, and possible flooding across multiple states. Authorities warn of extreme conditions from May 28 onward, urging residents to take precautions.

Impacted Regions

  • Intense rainfall (75–150 mm): Chiapas, Tabasco, Campeche, Yucatán.
  • Very strong rainfall (50–75 mm): Oaxaca, Veracruz, Quintana Roo.
  • Strong rainfall (25–50 mm): Puebla, Guerrero.
  • Moderate showers (5–25 mm): Nuevo León, San Luis Potosí, Tamaulipas, Jalisco, Colima, Michoacán, Hidalgo, Tlaxcala, Morelos, State of Mexico, Mexico City.
  • Isolated showers (0.1–5 mm): Baja California, Coahuila, Guanajuato, Querétaro.

Weather Conditions

  • Temperatures: Despite heavy rains, heatwaves persist in Sinaloa, Nayarit, Jalisco, Colima, Michoacán, Guerrero, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Campeche, and Yucatán, with highs reaching 40–45°C in some areas.
  • Winds: Gusts of 50–70 km/h expected in San Luis Potosí, Jalisco, Guerrero, Campeche, and Yucatán. Dust storms (tolvaneras) possible in Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Zacatecas, and Nayarit.
  • Coastal impact: Waves of 1.5–2.5 meters predicted along Baja California’s western coast and the shores of Yucatán and Quintana Roo.

What is a “Tormenta Negra”?

  • The term is not officially used in Mexico but originates from Hong Kong’s weather alert system, where “black storm” signals the highest level of rainfall warning.
  • Equivalent in Mexico: SMN’s purple alert, triggered when precipitation exceeds 70 mm per hour, posing risks of flash floods, landslides, and severe urban disruption.

Civil Protection Recommendations

  • Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rains.
  • Do not attempt to cross flooded streets or rivers.
  • Keep rooftops and drains clear to prevent water accumulation.
  • Identify nearby temporary shelters.
  • Follow official updates from SMN and Protección Civil.

Broader Significance

The Tormenta Negra highlights Mexico’s growing vulnerability to extreme weather events linked to climate change. With simultaneous heatwaves and torrential rains, communities face dual risks: crop damage from flooding and health threats from high temperatures.

The Tormenta Negra is set to unleash dangerous weather across Mexico, particularly in the southeast and Yucatán Peninsula. Authorities urge vigilance, preparation, and adherence to safety guidelines to minimize risks.

Source: CONAGUA

The Colima Post

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