Baja California’s State Civil Protection Coordination (CEPC) issued a multi-day weather alert on Friday, April 10, warning of rain, lightning, and wind gusts up to 70 km/h (43 mph) across six municipalities through Tuesday morning, April 14.
The system, driven by a cold front interacting with an upper-level trough and the subtropical jet stream, began producing isolated showers and light drizzle Friday afternoon. Affected areas include Tijuana, Mexicali, Rosarito, Tecate, Ensenada, and San Quintín.
Heavier Showers Expected Sunday and Monday
CEPC forecasters expect conditions to intensify over the weekend. Heavier showers are predicted for Sunday and Monday before tapering to light rain Tuesday in Tijuana, Tecate, and Rosarito. Lightning is possible throughout the event.
Wind gusts reaching 70 km/h are forecast for Mexicali, Tecate, and the mountain zones of San Quintín and Ensenada. Those areas also face the risk of dust storms as strong winds sweep across dry terrain.
Temperature Swings Across the Region
Coastal areas from Tijuana to Ensenada will see temperatures between 17°C and 23°C (63°F to 73°F). Inland areas tell a different story: Mexicali and San Felipe could reach 35°C (95°F) despite the storm system, creating a sharp contrast between the coast and the desert.
The CEPC is urging residents and visitors across the state to take precautions. Drivers should reduce speed on wet roads and avoid crossing water runoff streams, which can rise quickly during desert rainstorms. Homeowners should clear drains and gutters, secure loose outdoor objects such as patio furniture and signage, and unplug non-essential electronics during lightning activity.
What Residents Should Know
Spring storms in northern Baja California can cause flash flooding in low-lying areas and arroyos, even when rainfall totals seem modest. Roads in Tijuana’s hillside colonias and Ensenada’s canyon neighborhoods are particularly vulnerable to runoff. San Quintín’s agricultural zones can also see localized flooding when drainage systems are overwhelmed.
Travelers on the Tecate-Ensenada corridor (Highway 3) and the mountain stretch of Highway 2 between Tijuana and Mexicali should watch for reduced visibility from dust and rain. The CEPC will continue to update its forecasts through the duration of the event.
This report is based on information published by Punto Norte.