High temperatures will continue in Mexico until August or September due to the weather phenomenon known as La Niña, according to the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN) meteorologist.

Antonio Vázquez Cárdenas explained that continuing hot weather is being caused by a greater than normal impact of La Niña, an ocean-atmosphere phenomenon that cools sea temperatures but can also cause drier and hotter conditions in some regions of the world, including Mexico.

Vázquez said in a statement that the most affected states would be in central and northeastern areas of the country and that temperatures of up to 45 C could be expected in Sonora, Chihuahua, Durango and Zacatecas.

The meteorologist also forecast lower rainfall in the coming months compared to last year. Less rain will mean lower water levels in the nation’s reservoirs until August, Vázquez said.

To combat the forecast heat, the meteorologist said, it was important to stay hydrated because high temperatures can cause the human body to lose 30% more water than usual. He also recommended avoiding direct exposure to the sun between 11:00am and 5:00pm and using sunscreen.

Much of Mexico experienced extreme temperatures last week that reached as high as 47 C in two locations.

The heat wave triggered emergency declarations in 22 states, caused at least three deaths and even caused traffic lights to melt in two northern states.

Source: Milenio (sp)