Baja California Braces for Heavy Rain, Strong Winds, and Colder Temperatures
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-Editorial
Baja California authorities are warning residents of heavy rainfall, strong winds, high surf, and freezing temperatures in mountainous areas as a weather system is expected to affect all seven municipalities from Saturday through Monday.
The State Civil Protection Coordination (CEPC) issued the forecast Friday, Oct. 30, citing information from Mexico’s National Meteorological Service, which operates under the National Water Commission (Conagua).
According to CEPC Director Ignacio Lozoya Morales, the weather conditions are associated with the interaction of cold front No. 4, a low-pressure trough, the subtropical jet stream, and an atmospheric river.
Rainfall is expected to begin around midday Saturday, with intermittent showers and locally heavy precipitation continuing into the evening. Thunderstorms and hail are also possible in some areas.
Sunday is forecast to bring the most significant rainfall, affecting Tijuana, Tecate, Playas de Rosarito, Ensenada, San Quintín, San Felipe and Mexicali. The rain is expected to continue overnight and into early Monday.
Weather conditions are expected to improve Monday across most of the state, although isolated showers could develop around midday in southern and southeastern areas of San Quintín and San Felipe.
In addition to rainfall, forecasters anticipate wind gusts ranging from 31 to 43 mph, along with coastal waves reaching approximately 6.5 to 10 feet.
Temperatures in mountainous areas could fall to between 23 and 32 degrees Fahrenheit, raising concerns about freezing conditions in higher elevations.
Civil protection officials warned that the combination of heavy rainfall and strong winds could increase the risk of localized flooding, rising river levels, landslides and falling trees or outdoor signs.
Residents were advised to avoid crossing flooded streets, streams and other waterways where water levels could rise rapidly.
Motorists were encouraged to reduce their speed, maintain their headlights on during periods of reduced visibility and exercise additional caution on wet roads.
Authorities also recommended avoiding beaches and coastal areas during periods of elevated surf.
The agency urged families to prepare for colder temperatures, particularly those with young children, older adults and individuals with chronic medical conditions.
The CEPC said it would continue monitoring weather developments under the direction of Baja California Gov. Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda and Government Secretary Juan José Pon Méndez.
Residents were encouraged to follow updates from government agencies and emergency management authorities as weather conditions develop throughout the weekend.
Residents experiencing emergencies were instructed to call 911.
