Tornadoes hit San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas, knocking down trees and structures.

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At noon on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, in San Cristóbal de las Casas, in the state of Chiapas, strong winds were reported across much of the city. Hours later, the state’s Civil Protection Coordination confirmed the formation of two tornadoes, causing damage to structures and the downing of some trees.

Through the verified account of the Chiapas Civil Protection Coordination on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter, authorities confirmed the formation and passage of two tornadoes in the region. Preliminary damage to the metal roofs of homes and structures located on the streets was reported.

“The formation of two tornadoes has been reported in San Cristóbal de Las Casas, with preliminary damage to metal roofs. The State Civil Protection System has activated response protocols to safeguard the population,” reads the publication of the state’s Civil Protection.

On the other hand, they reported that the Civil Protection Coordination is in the area to provide assistance to the population affected by the tornadoes. Despite this, they recommended extreme caution.

Tornadoes cause damage in San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas

Minutes after the formation and deployment of the tornadoes, social media users began sharing videos of the tense moments experienced during and after the event. One of them documented the passage of one of the tornadoes in the Historic Center.

In all the footage documented during the event, it was possible to see how people began to run for shelter in some structure. One of them even shows how people who were near the Plaza de la Paz took refuge inside the Government Palace.

Other footage also showed the phenomenon from a distance, as well as the objects it dragged in its path. Although authorities only reported damage to sheet metal roofs, street vendors also saw damage, and some videos even documented the fall of trees.

A tornado is an atmospheric phenomenon characterized by an intensely rotating column of air that connects a storm cloud to the Earth’s surface. The most common areas for their occurrence are the plains of the United States, although they can occur in different regions around the world. According to the National Weather Service, their forces can destroy buildings and cause injuries or fatalities.

Recommendations to reduce the impact of a tornado include seeking shelter, avoiding cars, and staying away from windows. It is also suggested to have an emergency kit and follow official weather alerts.

Source: infobae