MEXICO CITY: Record-Breaking Heatwave Hits Mexico
Mexico City experienced its highest-ever temperature of 34.7 degrees Celsius (94.46 degrees Fahrenheit) on Saturday, setting a new record as a deadly heatwave sweeps across the country. The National Meteorological Service confirmed that this scorching temperature was the highest ever recorded in the city.
Since March, Mexico has reported 48 heat-related deaths and over 950 people suffering health effects, with the eastern coastal state of Veracruz leading in fatalities. Scientists are warning of intensifying heat over the next few weeks, with this year potentially being the warmest on record.
President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador attributed the extreme temperatures to climate change, describing this year’s heat as “exceptional.” The heatwave has also caused howler monkeys in southern Mexico to die.
With stores running out of bottled water and ice packs due to the intense heat, the capital’s pollution levels are rising as over 6.5 million vehicles circulate in the megacity. Despite traditionally enjoying a temperate climate, Mexico City is facing unprecedented challenges from the current heatwave.