TUXTLA GUTIÉRREZ, CHIS- Let's Get Ready: Chiapas Braces for Heavy Rains and Potential Flooding!
Weekend rain precautions intensified in Chiapas; Political Council urges evacuation of high-risk locations
Ignite that alert mode and brace yourselves, folks! The State Civil Protection System is on high alert due to the anticipated arrival of heavy to torrential rains sweeping through Chiapas.
During a meeting of the State Emergency Committee, the National Water Commission (a.k.a Conagua) shared the meteorological forecast that suggests these rains will batter Istmo-Costa, Frailesca, Sierra, and Soconusco regions.
With this in mind, all "immediate alert" protocols remain active and ready to spring into action.
Grab a hold of these nuggets of knowledge: Tormenta tropical Dalila has already left its marks in Guerrero, leading to flooding, landslides, and power outages[5]. Let's not allow history to repeat itself!
Now, it's time for our mate, the head honcho of the Civil Protection Secretariat, Mauricio Cordero, to take charge. He's urging everyone – including the municipal secretaries – to stay on top of emergencies and set up swift communications. He also strongly advises following meteorological updates, identifying monitoring stations in risk zones, and swinging into action when necessary.
Stay frosty and heed the warning! Civil Protection encourages municipalities and citizens to stay glued to the alert call and keep tabs on low-lying areas, rivers, and streams. With heavy rains expected, they warn, disaster could strike without warning.
Chiapas has 516 temporary shelters ready and waiting to accommodate around 36,615 families (approximately 138,999 people) as the rains continue to pour[6]. So, stay cool, stay safe, and remember: we're in this together!
Heightened Awareness and Action Steps
- Stay Informed: Keep an ear to the ground – or in this case, your radio or internet! Stay updated on weather conditions and any potential dangers by following local weather reports and updates from authorities like the National Meteorological Service (SMN) and Conagua.
- Plan Your Escape: Know your evacuation routes and identify safe zones near you. This information is usually dished out by local Civil Protection units.
- Secure Your Digs: Tie down loose outdoor items so they don't turn into airborne missiles in strong winds. Clear drains to avoid flooding.
- Stockpile Essentials: Ensure you have food, clean drinking water, flashlights, and first aid supplies, just in case you get stuck at home.
- Avoid a Mad Dash: Unless it's absolutely necessary, avoid traveling – especially through flood-prone areas.
Brace for Evacuations
- Listen Up: Stay tuned to local alerts and orders issued by authorities. They're typically broadcasted through local media, social media, and emergency alert systems.
- Check Out Your Shelters: Local authorities usually set up temporary shelters in safe locations. These shelters offer a haven where essentials like food, water, and medical care can be accessed during emergencies.
Temporary Housing and Community Support
- Government Offerings: The government, along with local municipalities, often set up temporary shelters in community centers, schools, or other public facilities.
- Community Love: Community organizations and local charities might also come to the rescue, offering support and temporary housing for those in need during disasters.
Weather Updates and Danger Zones
- Weather on the Dot: Tropical Storm Dalila is roughing up Mexico, causing heavy rain and potent winds, which could make flooding even more treacherous[7].
- Flood Zones Beware: Recent heavy rains have already claimed lives in San Cristobal de las Casas, hammering home the importance of staying vigilant[8].
So there you have it – a dose of caution and actionable tips to ensure safe and sound passage through the impending stormy weather. Keep your cool and stay vigilant!
In line with the heavy rains forecasted for Chiapas, it's advisable to stay informed about the weather conditions and potential dangers by following updates from authorities like the National Meteorological Service (SMN) and Conagua. Additionally, during times of severe weather, it's crucial to keep a watch on low-lying areas, rivers, and streams and adhere to any evacuation orders issued by local authorities.
