Introduction
Despite significant rainfall in various regions of Mexico over the past few weeks, at least 388 municipalities continue to experience drought conditions, according to the latest Drought Monitor report from Mexico’s National Water Commission (Conagua) as of May 31, 2025.
Rains Bring Relief to Some Regions
Heavy rains in the northeast, central, southern, and western parts of Mexico, driven by tropical storm Alvin, cold front number 43, and low-pressure systems, have helped reduce moderate drought (D1) in several states. There has also been a decrease in extreme and exceptional drought (D3 and D4) in areas of Sinaloa, Chihuahua, and Durango.
Persistent Drought in Other Regions
However, regions like Sonora, Tabasco, and Oaxaca still face drought due to rainfall deficits. These deficits have prevented significant soil moisture recovery and maintained high drought levels.
Which States Are Most Affected?
The following states have 100% of their municipalities experiencing drought:
- Chihuahua
- Sonora
- Sinaloa
- Baja California
Other states with a high proportion of affected municipalities include:
- Durango with 71.8% of its municipalities experiencing drought
- Coahuila with 60.5%
- Baja California Sur with 80%
- Tabasco with 76.5%
Why Does Drought Persist Despite Rains?
The report explains that, although significant rains have occurred, they have been insufficient in regions with severe or prolonged hydration deficits. Factors such as uneven rainfall distribution, high evaporation due to elevated temperatures, and the lack of deep aquifer recharge have limited positive effects.
In other words, while some regions begin to show signs of recovery thanks to the rains, others still face critical conditions.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: How many municipalities are still affected by drought in Mexico? A: At least 388 municipalities continue to experience drought conditions.
- Q: Which regions have seen improvements due to recent rains? A: The northeast, central, southern, and western parts of Mexico have experienced some drought relief.
- Q: Why do some areas still face drought despite the rains? A: Insufficient rainfall in regions with severe or prolonged hydration deficits, uneven distribution of rainfall, high evaporation due to elevated temperatures, and lack of deep aquifer recharge have limited positive effects.
- Q: Which states are most affected by drought? A: Chihuahua, Sonora, Sinaloa, Baja California have 100% of their municipalities experiencing drought. Durango, Coahuila, Baja California Sur, and Tabasco have high proportions of affected municipalities.
