Extreme Heat Grips Mexico, Central America, and Southern U.S., Straining Energy Grids and Impacting Wildlife

Overview

Extreme heat has engulfed Mexico, Central America, and parts of the U.S. South, leaving millions of people struggling in sweltering temperatures, straining energy grids, and causing severe impacts on wildlife. The phenomenon, attributed to a heat dome — an area of strong high pressure centered over the southern Gulf of Mexico and northern Central America — has created prolonged sunshine and soaring temperatures.

Meteorological Factors and Climate Change

Meteorologists attribute the intense heat to southerly winds from the tropics, which have transported warm, moist air northward from the equator, contributing to the unusually warm conditions. Shawn Bhatti, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service forecast office in Miami, explained that these conditions are exacerbated by a world rapidly warming due to greenhouse gases from burning fossil fuels like oil, gas, and coal.

The high temperatures stretch across the Gulf of Mexico, impacting parts of the United States, including Texas and Florida. Miami International Airport recorded a daily high of 96 degrees Fahrenheit (35.6 degrees Celsius) on May 19, significantly above the usual 86 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius) for this time of year.

Impact on Energy and Wildlife

In Texas, thousands remain without power following thunderstorms, while a heat advisory issued by the NWS indicated temperatures along the Rio Grande would rise to 111 degrees Fahrenheit (43.9 degrees Celsius) and 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius) in the Davis and Chinati mountains.

The extreme heat has also severely impacted wildlife, with more than 130 howler monkeys reported dead in southeastern Mexico's jungles. Higher bird mortality rates have been observed in northern Mexico, likely due to the heat and other environmental factors.

Ocean Temperatures and Hurricane Season

Experts are concerned about the implications of the extreme heat on ocean water temperatures, which could influence the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season. Andrew Kruczkiewicz, a senior researcher at the Columbia Climate School, noted that the region is transitioning from an El Niño pattern, which typically reduces tropical cyclone activity, to a La Niña pattern, which increases the likelihood of such activity. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has projected an 85% chance of above-average storm activity for the Atlantic hurricane season beginning June 1.

Regional Heat Wave and Water Shortages

In Mexico, the heat wave has been linked to over two dozen deaths since March. Mónica Eréndira Jiménez from the Mexican Weather Service described the current heat wave as one of the longest and most concerning of 2024, affecting most of the country. Mexico City experienced a record high of nearly 94 degrees Fahrenheit (34.3 degrees Celsius) on May 9, with temperatures expected to rise further. The heat, combined with pollution, has led to increased ozone concentrations.

The country is also experiencing below-average rainfall, causing lakes and dams to dry up and water supplies to dwindle. This has led to protests, with police agents in Mexico City blocking traffic to highlight the lack of water at their barracks. Authorities have resorted to trucking in water for hospitals and firefighting teams. Low water levels at hydroelectric dams have contributed to power blackouts, and OXXO, the nation's largest convenience store chain, has limited ice purchases in some areas.

Impacts in Central America

In Guatemala, the combination of heat and forest fires has prompted authorities to ban outdoor activities in the capital’s schools due to poor air quality. Nearby nations, including Belize, El Salvador, Honduras, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti, are also experiencing abnormally high temperatures due to the heat dome.

Health and Economic Impacts

The extreme heat poses significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke and dehydration, are major concerns. Public health advisories have been issued, urging people to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and seek air-conditioned environments.

Economically, the heat wave is straining infrastructure and resources. Energy consumption has spiked as people rely more heavily on air conditioning, leading to increased stress on power grids. In areas with power outages, businesses and services face disruptions, impacting local economies. Agriculture is also severely affected, with crops wilting under the intense sun and water shortages complicating irrigation efforts.

Government and Community Responses

Governments in the affected regions are taking measures to mitigate the impacts of the heat wave. In Mexico, authorities are distributing water and providing cooling centers for residents. Emergency services are on high alert to respond to heat-related health emergencies. In Central America, similar measures are being implemented, with additional focus on combating forest fires that exacerbate the situation.

Community organizations and NGOs are also stepping in to provide support. In urban areas, volunteer groups are distributing bottled water and setting up temporary shelters to offer respite from the heat. Educational campaigns are being launched to inform the public about heat safety and conservation efforts to manage water resources more effectively.

Conclusion

The extreme heat gripping Mexico, Central America, and parts of the U.S. South underscores the urgent need to address climate change and its far-reaching impacts. From strained energy grids to wildlife casualties and disrupted daily life, the consequences of this heat wave are profound. As the region braces for a potentially active hurricane season, the importance of understanding and mitigating climate-related risks has never been more critical.

Report Contributions

Patrick O'Malley reported from Philadelphia, Maria Verza from Mexico City, and Sonia Pérez D. from Guatemala City. The Associated Press’ climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. The AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters, and funded coverage areas at AP.org.