Showers with 60 km/h Gusts Hit Quintana Roo: Cancun Deploys 150 Workers
The State Civil Protection agency warned of a 42°C heat index and waves up to 2 meters in the northern zone; the Benito Juárez city government cleared storm drains on key avenues to prevent flooding.
Quintana Roo's State Civil Protection Coordination (COEPROC) issued a weather bulletin in effect from 6:00 a.m. on July 16 to 6:00 a.m. on July 17, forecasting showers with lightning activity for the state's northern zone, which includes Benito Juárez (Cancun), Isla Mujeres, Cozumel and Puerto Morelos.
According to the state agency, the system brought wind gusts of 40 to 60 km/h along the coast, with sustained east winds of 15 to 25 km/h. Waves reached 1 to 2 meters off the beaches of northern Quintana Roo. On temperature, COEPROC forecast highs of 32 to 39 degrees Celsius, with a heat index that could reach 40 to 42 degrees due to the combination of heat and humidity.
Ahead of that forecast, the Benito Juárez city government deployed an operation of 150 workers organized into 15 crews to clear storm drains along high-traffic avenues, including Tulum, Bonampak, Cobá, Xcaret, Sunyaxchén, Tankah, Playas, Xpuhil, Palenque, La Costa and Lombardo Toledano, as well as the intersection of Felipe Carrillo Puerto and Chac Mool. The operation's goal was to reduce flooding and speed up drainage in spots that historically flood during the rainy season. The operation was confirmed by Landy Pantoja, officer in charge of the Municipal Presidency's office, and Pablo Gutiérrez Fernández, the city government's secretary general.
What it means for residents and visitors in Cancun
With gusts of up to 60 km/h and waves of up to 2 meters, water activities and swimming off the state's northern beaches carry higher risk while the bulletin remains in effect. A heat index of up to 42 degrees, combined with intermittent showers, raises the chance of heat-related illness for anyone spending extended time outdoors, so staying hydrated and seeking shade between rain bands is advisable.
On the roads, even with drain-clearing work underway, temporary flooding can still form during the heaviest downpours, particularly along the avenues listed above and their intersections. Drivers are advised to avoid flooded stretches, slow down, and keep distance from larger vehicles that can push water across the pavement.
To report flooding, clogged drains or wind damage on public roads, the Benito Juárez city government operates the municipal line 072. For emergencies involving risk to life or physical safety, the number to call is 911.
COEPROC bulletins are updated periodically throughout the rainy and hurricane season, which in Quintana Roo runs from June through November, so residents are encouraged to follow official channels from the state Civil Protection agency and the Benito Juárez city government for any change in the forecast.
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Some 26,600 tons have been removed in Benito Juárez so far this year, nearly double the same period in 2025; landings concentrate in the hotel zone.
State Civil Protection forecasts downpours with lightning and coastal wind gusts; the Caribbean has no active cyclones and Tropical Storm Cristóbal is moving away in the Atlantic.
The system is still far away, near Cabo Verde, and poses no immediate threat to Quintana Roo; a good moment to review your family plan.