CLIMATE
The physical diversity of Mexico is expressed in the
countrys varied climatic conditions. Among the
reason such diversity are latitude position (most of
Mexico lies south of the Tropic of Cancer), complicated
terrain, varied altitudes (nearly half of the
country is over 5,000 feet above sea level! ), and the
influence of adjacent seas and oceans.
Most of
the country is exceptionally dry, particularly in the
northern regions and the Baja Peninsula. Southern Mexico
and the Yucatàn Peninsula experience pronounced
rainfall, with areas in Chiapas State tallying over 150
inches of annual precipitation!
As in
most tropical regions, Mexico has two weather seasons:
rainy and dry. Generally, rain fall and temperatures rise
from June through October, leaving November-May as the
more temperate, drier season.
1
NORTHERN BAJA
Despite the desert landscape, this region resembles
Southern California, with little rain, warm summers, and
mild winters. The Sea of Cortès side tends to be warmer
than the Pacific side of the peninsula.
2
SOUTHERN BAJA
This subtropical desert boasts over 350 days a year
of sunshine, cool winter evenings, low humidity and
refreshing sea breezes. Summer temperatures climb into
the low 100s but are generally cooler on the
Pacific Ocean side.
3
NORTHWEST COAST
This region is similar to Northern Baja, but with
more rain and stronger storm patterns.
4
WEST COAST
Also known as the "Riviera," this region
has warm tropical weather year round. The months of
November
through
May are blessed with warm, dry days and balmy evenings.
The region has a pronounced rainy season (June-October)
with heavy humidity, daily rain showers, and warm
temperatures.
5
CENTRAL PLATEAU
Due to higher elevations this region has pleasant ,
spring-like conditions through much of the year. Rainfall
is most pronounced June through September. Cool and often
cold evenings are common in winter.
6 THE
YUCATÁN PENINSULA
In this region, coastal proximity largely determines
temperature and humidity. In summer, Gulf and Caribbean
coasts stay cooler due to trade winds while interior
jungles are hot and humid. Rainfall is pronounced from
April-May and September January, when temperatures
soar into the 90s, September and October bring the
chance of hurricanes and sometimes prolonged cloudiness.
Winters are very pleasant.
7 THE
GULF COAST
This region is muggy with severe summer temperatures.
Rainfall increases significantly south of Tampico, where
cold nortes (brisk northerly winds) often hit from
September through February.
Travelers
can obtain current readings and three - day forecasts
through several services, including American
Express Worldwide Weather Report (dial
900-WEATHER). For cities in Mexico punch in the first
three letters of the citys name (MEX for Mexico
City) Cost is $.75 per minute.
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