Baja California Braces for Rain, Strong Winds, and Possible Sleet

-Editorial

Baja California authorities are warning residents to prepare for scattered rainfall, strong winds, cooler temperatures, and possible sleet in mountainous areas Friday, Oct. 23, and Saturday, Oct. 24, as a cold front moves through the region.

The Baja California State Civil Protection Coordination issued the advisory Thursday, Oct. 22, based on forecasts from Mexico’s National Meteorological Service, part of the National Water Commission, known as Conagua.

State Civil Protection Director Ignacio Lozoya Morales said the conditions are associated with the interaction of cold front No. 3, a cyclonic circulation and a trough affecting the region.

According to the forecast, scattered rain and intermittent showers are expected Friday across all Baja California municipalities, with precipitation possible throughout the day and overnight.

Rainfall is expected to continue Saturday, primarily affecting the north-central and western portions of the state, including Ensenada, San Quintín and San Felipe.

Authorities also reported a possibility of sleet in the Sierra de San Pedro Mártir between Friday and Saturday as temperatures decline in higher elevations.

Wind gusts could reach 50 to 60 kilometers per hour, approximately 31 to 37 mph, while waves along Baja California’s Pacific coastline could reach 2 meters, or about 6.6 feet.

Temperatures are expected to decrease slightly statewide, with mountainous areas potentially experiencing lows between minus 5 and zero degrees Celsius, equivalent to 23 to 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

Civil protection officials warned that rainfall could cause localized flooding and water accumulation in low-lying areas, creating hazardous driving conditions.

Residents were advised to avoid crossing flooded streets, streams and areas with flowing water, particularly where rainfall could produce sudden changes in water levels.

Motorists were urged to reduce their speed, use headlights and exercise additional caution because rain and blowing dust could significantly reduce visibility along highways and local roads.

Officials also cautioned residents about the potential for falling trees, damaged signs and other objects during periods of strong wind.

Along the Pacific coast, authorities recommended avoiding beaches and areas exposed to elevated surf until conditions improve.

Families were encouraged to prepare for colder weather by wearing appropriate clothing and taking additional precautions to protect children, older adults and people with chronic medical conditions from cold exposure and respiratory illnesses.

The State Civil Protection Coordination said it would maintain continuous monitoring of the developing weather systems under the administration of Gov. Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda and state Government Secretary Juan José Pon Méndez.

Officials emphasized that weather conditions could vary among municipalities and that rainfall intensity and timing may change as the systems move through the region.

Residents were encouraged to monitor official weather reports, follow emergency instructions, and report hazardous situations through Mexico’s 911 emergency number.