What is the Canícula?
The canícula is a summer climatic phenomenon characterized by significantly reduced rainfall, high temperatures, clear skies, and extreme heat. This event typically occurs between July and August, primarily affecting central, southern, and southeastern Mexico.
The name “canícula” originates from the Latin word “canes,” meaning “dogs,” and is linked to the constellation of the Greater Dog (Canícula) and its star Sirius, “The Burner.” The appearance of Sirius on the horizon coincided with the intense heat phenomenon.
Affected Regions in 2025
In 2025, the states most affected by canícula include:
- Southeast and Gulf Coast: Campeche, Tabasco, Veracruz, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo.
- Central and South: State of Mexico, Morelos, Guerrero, Oaxaca, Puebla, Tlaxcala, and Hidalgo.
- Western and Northern: Colima, Michoacán, San Luis Potosí, Nuevo León, Tamaulipas, Guanajuato, Jalisco, and Chiapas.
Health Risks
During canícula, extreme heat can have adverse effects on health, particularly for individuals with respiratory diseases like asthma, children, older adults, and pets.
Hot air can irritate respiratory tracts, and urban areas may experience worsened symptoms due to smog. Additionally, canícula promotes food decomposition, potentially causing acute diarrheal diseases (ADD), food poisoning, and gastroenteritis.
Recommendations
For the General Public:
- Avoid direct sun exposure between 10:00 and 17:00.
- Wear light clothing, sunscreen, hats, or umbrellas.
- Stay well-hydrated.
- Check air quality index and protect against smog.
- Seek medical attention if experiencing respiratory symptoms or feeling suffocated.
For Vulnerable Groups:
Pets
- Avoid walking them during peak heat hours.
- Provide fresh water and never leave them in vehicles.
Children
- Prevent outdoor play during peak sun hours.
- Dress them in lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Offer water frequently, even if they don’t feel thirsty.
Older Adults
- Offer water frequently.
- Avoid outdoor activities during the day.
- Monitor blood pressure and mood, as heat can cause confusion or fainting.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What is the canícula? A: The canícula is a summer climatic phenomenon characterized by reduced rainfall, high temperatures, clear skies, and extreme heat.
- Q: Which regions are most affected in 2025? A: The southeast and Gulf Coast, central and southern regions, and western and northern states are most affected.
- Q: Who is at risk during canícula? A: Individuals with respiratory diseases, children, older adults, and pets are particularly vulnerable.
- Q: What health risks does canícula pose? A: Canícula can cause respiratory irritation, exacerbate smog symptoms, and lead to foodborne illnesses.
- Q: How can I protect myself during canícula? A: Avoid sun exposure, stay hydrated, check air quality, and seek medical attention if needed. Special care should be taken for vulnerable groups like children, older adults, and pets.
