Starting Tuesday, May 6, and continuing until Thursday, May 8, an intense heat wave is expected in Mexico City. According to the Secretariat of Integral Risk Management and Civil Protection of Mexico City (SGIRPC), during this period maximum daily temperatures are expected to range between 30 and 32 °C in much of the capital. The weather forecast indicates clear to partly cloudy skies, a high ultraviolet radiation index, and the presence of strong gusts of wind accompanied by dust storms, which increases health and environmental risks.
May 2024 was the hottest May in the history of Mexico, with an average temperature of 27 degrees Celsius, the highest ever recorded since official measurements began in 1953, according to the National Meteorological Service (SMN).
Recommendations for the heat wave: Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. Try to stay in cool, shaded, and well-ventilated places, especially during peak radiation hours (between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM). Apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, even on cloudy days. Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, even if you are not thirsty, to prevent dehydration. Wear light and light-colored clothing. Use a hat, cap, sunglasses, and an umbrella if you need to go outside. Avoid eating food in public places, as high temperatures can cause it to spoil more quickly and may lead to gastrointestinal illnesses.
Take care of the most vulnerable: pay special attention to babies, young children, older adults, and those with chronic illnesses, as they are more susceptible to heat strokes.
