The Drought Monitor in Mexico shows that states in the northern part of the country are experiencing contrasting conditions regarding the lack of rainfall. While Coahuila has municipalities experiencing drought-related impacts, Durango currently has no municipalities classified as being in drought, although both states are facing pressure from a climate marked by extreme variations.
In Coahuila, 23 municipalities were classified as abnormally dry, while one additional municipality was experiencing moderate drought. This represents 2.6 percent of the state’s total municipalities. Although rainfall in southern Coahuila helped reduce adverse conditions, persistent heat waves in the northern part of the state continue to raise concerns about their impact on agricultural activities and water availability.
Durango, meanwhile, reported 11 municipalities under abnormally dry conditions, but none classified as experiencing drought. Rainfall recorded during the first half of August, close to the climatological average, contributed to partial recovery in areas of central and northern Mexico, including Durango. The absence of municipalities experiencing drought places Durango in a less vulnerable position compared with other states in southern and southeastern Mexico.
The National Meteorological Service (SMN) reported that rainfall was above average in regions of northwestern, northern, and north-central Mexico, due to low-pressure channels, cyclonic circulations, upper-level troughs, and the Mexican monsoon. However, in much of the country, rainfall remained below average, resulting in an increase in abnormally dry conditions and moderate drought.
As of August 15, land affected by moderate to severe drought covered 3.5 percent of Mexico’s territory, an increase of 0.8 percentage points compared with the end of July. In total, 145 municipalities are experiencing drought, while 676 are classified as abnormally dry. Among the most affected states are Chiapas, with 44 municipalities; Oaxaca, with 35; and Guerrero, with 20.
The contrast between Coahuila and Durango reflects the complexity of the climate situation in northern Mexico. While Coahuila is facing drought pressure in some municipalities, Durango is benefiting from rainfall that has helped contain the advance of arid conditions.
Source: elsiglodetorreon
