The state of Yucatán is bracing itself for a prolonged period of strong winds that are expected to last over 10 hours tomorrow, April 3, with authorities on high alert for the possibility of major wildfires.
According to the State Civil Protection agency (PROCIVY), wind gusts of up to 80 km/h are being recorded in coastal areas, while interior regions have experienced gusts of 70 kph. The winds will be most intense between today and Saturday, April 5.
“The surada winds have left us with a high alert for possible wildfires,” said PROCIVY officials. “We urge citizens to exercise extreme caution due to the strong winds and high temperatures.”
The agency warned that tomorrow’s winds will coincide with high temperatures, which have already reached 40 degrees Celsius in various areas of Yucatán.
Yesterday’s strong winds caused power outages, including a reported incident where a tree branch fell and damaged a car on Avenida Mérida 2000. The Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) personnel worked to restore power to dozens of businesses and homes in the area.
In addition to the power outages, residents have reported seeing fallen trees in various neighborhoods throughout Mérida, including Pacabtún and downtown areas.
PROCIVY is also working to combat a forest fire that broke out yesterday in Conkal, Mocochá, and Yaxkukul. The blaze affected over 600 hectares of land and authorities are taking measures to prevent it from reigniting.
Meanwhile, two separate fires were reported in the municipalities of Izamal and Umán. In Izamal, a brush fire was reported near an LP gas station, while in Umán, a fire broke out on an abandoned property before spreading to nearby buildings.
Residents are being warned to exercise extreme caution when driving due to possible smoke on roads, which could reduce visibility and create hazardous conditions.
.
Source: El Universal
