While central and southern states received vast quantities of rain in June, precipitation remained scarce in northwestern states. (Rogelio Morales/Cuartoscuro)
Mexico received more rain in June than any other month on record, according to data from the National Meteorological Service (SMN).
The SMN, part of the National Water Commission (Conagua), reported that average accumulated rainfall across Mexico in June was 155.5 millimeters (6.12 inches).
That is the highest average national total for any month since Conagua began recording monthly rainfall totals in 1941. Last month superseded June of 2024 as the rainiest month on record in Mexico.
In contrast, June of 2023 was an extremely dry month, with an average accumulated national rainfall of just 39.2 millimeters, 60.7% below the average precipitation in the month of June between 1991 and 2020.
The national rainfall total in June this year was 55.7 millimeters, or 55.8%, higher than the average over that three-decade period.
Rain brought by Hurricane Erick, which made landfall in Oaxaca last month, and other storms, contributed to the high levels of precipitation in Mexico in June.
Sheinbaum also celebrated the resilience of Mexico's economy on Wednesday, remarking that major banks "said the economy was going to collapse ... and from here we said you are wrong." (Mario Jasso/Cuartoscuro)
At her Wednesday morning press conference, President Claudia Sheinbaum spoke about the strong demand for a government bank card in the United States.
Among other topics, she also discussed the Mexican economy and the almost 11-year-old Ayotzinapa case involving the disappearance of 43 students in Guerrero.
Here is a recap of the president’s July 30 mañanera.
50,000 Mexicans in US have requested government bank card to avoid new remittance tax
Earlier this month, Sheinbaum promoted a government bank card that can help Mexicans living in the United States avoid the new 1% remittance tax on cash transfers that will take effect on Jan. 1, 2026.
On Wednesday, a reporter asked the president how many Mexicans already have the Finabien bank card.
Sheinbaum said that about 50,000 Mexicans have requested the card “by mail,” but didn’t specify how many people have already received it. Distribution of the card began a week ago.
President Sheinbaum recommended Finabien cards — Mexican government bank cards linked to a U.S. bank account — as a way for Mexicans in the U.S. to send funds without paying the remittance tax, which goes into effect in 2026. (Rogelio Morales/Cuartoscuro)
Sheinbaum said that the government has the capacity to supply Finabien cards to all Mexicans in the U.S. who want one.
The card can be acquired at 53 consulates in the U.S., by mail or via digital application at miconsulado.sre.gob.mx.
Sheinbaum said that around 70% of remittances from the United States to Mexico are sent electronically by Mexicans who have a bank account in the U.S. or “some kind of card” that allows them to transfer money to their families.
She said that around 30% of remittances are sent via “these tienditas [small stores] that there are in different places in the United States.”
Sheinbaum was apparently referring to shops, including grocery stores and convenience stores, where people can transfer money to Mexico using services such as Western Union.
“They pay in cash and … say: ‘Please send this remittance to such and such place’ … and their families pick it up there,” she said.
“So, for that 30%, we’re giving them the option to do it in an easier way, electronically through the Finabien card,” Sheinbaum said.
‘The economy of Mexico is strong, it’s solid,’ says Sheinbaum
She also acknowledged that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) raised its forecast for the Mexican economy in 2025.
“They said the economy was going to collapse, that it was going to be a 0.3% contraction … and from here we said you are wrong,” Sheinbaum said.
“The economy of Mexico is strong, it’s solid,” she added.
The IMF is now forecasting that the Mexican economy will grow 0.2% in 2025.
Referring to U.S. President Donald Trump’s protectionist agenda, Sheinbaum conceded that “the issue of tariffs” has caused economic uncertainty, not just for Mexico, but for the “whole world.”
“And particularly for Mexico due to the economic integration we have with the United States. But the plan we developed is producing results and it will be even more effective next year,” she said, referring to the Plan México economic initiative.
Sheinbaum subsequently said while GDP growth is “one way of measuring the economy,” it shouldn’t be the only one “because the growth of the economy doesn’t necessarily reflect good salaries, well-being of the people and the reduction of inequalities.”
“And in Mexico, there has been a reduction in poverty, a reduction in inequality and more well-being for the people of Mexico,” she said.
Sheinbaum said that the Federal Attorney General’s Office, supported by the federal Security Ministry, is working with “new investigation tools” and “new methods” as it it seeks to locate the students, of whom the remains of just three have been found.
“I think they will provide new ways to find the young men and learn the whole truth,” she said.
Parents of the 43 missing Ayotzinapa students continue to advocate for the resolution of the case. (Graciela López/Cuartoscuro)
“… I understand the situation of the fathers and mothers who … are always looking for their sons, and answers, as well,” Sheinbaum said.
“Of course we understand their pain and their situation,” she said.
Sheinbaum said that she hoped to be able to provide an update on the investigation in early September, when she is scheduled to meet once again with the parents of the students, who were abducted in Iguala, Guerrero, on the night of Sept. 26 2014, and presumably murdered.
Over 100 people, including army personnel, have been arrested in connection with the case, but no one has been convicted of the crime.
By Mexico News Daily chief staff writer Peter Davies (peter.davies@mexiconewsdaily.com)
Ensenada, Baja California, recorded wave heights of 0.70 meters at 6:15 a.m. on Wednesday. (Cuartoscuro)
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has ruled out damages following the 8.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula on Tuesday. Yet, she warned of rising sea levels along Mexico’s Pacific coast.
Mexico, along with the United States and Chile, had issued a tsunami warning soon after the earthquake.
[Hilo] Comienzan a registrarse en México los efectos del #Tsunami producido por el sismo de magnitud 8.8, ocurrido el día de ayer en la península de Kamchatka, Rusia. La primera de nuestras estaciones en registrar el fenómeno fue Manzanillo, Colima, a las 11:24 UTC… pic.twitter.com/kDjWJXQFh7
— Servicio Mareográfico Nacional UNAM (@SMareograficoN) July 30, 2025
The Mexican Navy (Semar) had reported at a Security Cabinet meeting that Wednesday morning would be the likeliest time for any concern, due to a slight rise in sea level in certain areas of the eastern Pacific Ocean. However, it reiterated that the information did not imply major risks.
Earlier, the Tsunami Warning Center (CAT) of the Semar issued an alert bulletin to update sea level fluctuations at various points along the Mexican Pacific coast. Mexican authorities recommended that the population stay away from beaches and coastal areas and exercise extreme caution in maritime activities, noting that the alert remained active only as a preventive measure.
In the advisory, Semar mentioned the variations in wave heights at key cities along Mexico’s Pacific coast. These include Ensenada, Baja California, which recorded a height of 0.70 meters at 6:15 a.m. (12:15 GMT), and Salina Cruz in Oaxaca, with a height of 0.25 meters at 6:14 a.m. (12:14 GMT).
Also mentioned were Clarión Island (one of the Revillagigedo Islands off the Colima coast), with a height of 0.25 meters at 6:20 a.m. (12:20 GMT), and Manzanillo, Colima, with 1.15 meters at 6:15 a.m. (12:15 GMT).
No material damage or injuries were reported at these sites.
Wednesday at dawn was the likeliest time for concern due to a slight rise in sea level in certain areas of the eastern Pacific Ocean. (Cuartoscuro)
During the tsunami warning, dozens of people, including locals and tourists, crowded the Mazatlán promenade to watch the sea, ignoring official warnings to stay away from the coastal area for safety reasons. The warnings urged people not to approach the beaches or the seawall, due to the risk of sudden currents and changes in sea level.
Despite these warnings, on Tuesday night and early Wednesday morning, groups of families and friends could be seen sitting and walking along the boardwalk. The atmosphere was festive, according to images shared on social media.
The Semar temporarily closed several Pacific Ocean ports as a precautionary measure in response to the tsunami warning. These include:
Closed to large vessels:
Zihuatanejo, Guerrero
Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
Puerto Chiapas, Chiapas
Closed to small vessels:
Cabo San Lucas, Baja California
Puerto Peñasco, Sonora
Zihuatanejo, Guerrero
Chacala, Nayarit
Puerto Chiapas, Chiapas
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the quake struck at a depth of 19.3 kilometers (12.2 miles) and occurred 126 kilometers (78 miles) east-southeast of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, a city of 165,000 people on the coast of Avacha Bay, Russia.
The USGS said it was one of the 10 most powerful earthquakes on record.
The artificial intelligence project announcement came during a preview of the Mexico IA+ Accelerated Investment international event, scheduled for November. (Moisés Pablo/Cuartoscuro)
Mexico is working on an artificial intelligence (AI) language model to help the country integrate into the new data-based global economic order, Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard announced on Tuesday.
The announcement came during the presentation of the upcoming Mexico IA+ Accelerated Investment international event, scheduled to take place in Mexico City on Nov. 12 and 13.
Marcio Aguiar, Latin America director of the tech giant Nvidia, confirmed his company’s collaboration in the Mexican AI project. (Moisés Pablo/Cuartoscuro)
Backed by the giant technology company Nvidia, the event will serve as the primary launch platform for Mexico’s artificial intelligence project, including the presentation of its large language model (LLM).
“AI is the modern alphabet,” Ebrard said. “Either we hurry up and master that alphabet, or it’s going to be a huge disadvantage [for us] in the new world arrangement we’re seeing emerge today.”
This AI initiative follows President Claudia Sheinbaum’s announcement regarding the upcoming launch of the National Artificial Intelligence Laboratory as one of the 18 actions outlined in Plan México. Sheinbaum has stressed that investment and scientific and technological development are a fundamental part of her administration.
Meanwhile, Marcio Aguiar, Nvidia’s director for Latin America, confirmed the company’s collaboration in the Mexican AI project through training to develop specialized talent.
“It is essential for the country to train people so that it can be more competitive globally and, obviously, position Mexico as one of the main players,” Aguiar said. He also explained that the model will draw data from Mexican culture and history.
According to Ebrard, Mexico has two key advantages for the global technology sector: a young workforce eager to enter the industry, and 5.5 million economic units that can connect with this talent, according to data from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI).
The government’s ambition is to make its AI project accessible to over 5 million university students and more than 5 million businesses, with the expectation of seeing “visible and tangible results” in two years’ time, Ebrard said.
However, adequate infrastructure is needed to support this initiative.
According to the Business Coordinating Council (CCE), investment in data centers could reach US $9.2 billion, potentially generating up to $27 billion in indirect economic impact. Adriana Rivera Cerecedo, director of the Mexican Data Center Association, told news agency EFE that this means installing more than 70 data centers offering colocation or cloud services.
Currently, the large language models (LLM) sector is dominated by companies like OpenAI, Google and Microsoft, all based in the United States. Other countries have developed their own LLMs, including France with Mistral, China with DeepSeek and Chile with LatamGPT.
LatamGPT is intended as a collaborative regional project developed by the National Center for Artificial Intelligence in Chile (CENIA) and also supported by Mexico and Nvidia.
Oaxaca is following in the footsteps of Mexico City, whose aerial tram lines have been a popular success. (Victoria Valtierra/Cuartoscuro)
Aerial tram lines will be developed in the Oaxaca City metropolitan area to enhance local transportation, ease congestion on the ground and boost tourism, state Governor Salomón Jara announced on Sunday.
The project will include a large-scale cable car line, like that of México state’s Mexicable, and a “cablebús” system, similar to that of Mexico City, which seats 10 passengers in each unit.
Oaxaca’s planned aerial tram lines are aimed at providing convenient transportation for its residents, but, as Mayor Raymundo Chagoya points out, “As an added attraction, we will really enjoy seeing the city from above.” (Ryan Doyle/Unsplash)
The plan has the full support of Oaxaca City Mayor Raymundo Chagoya. “I really like the idea,” Chagoya said. “Oaxaca will shine much more with a cable car.”
The mayor also alluded to the aesthetic appeal of aerial transport over one of Mexico’s most beloved cities. “As an additional attraction, we will really enjoy seeing the city from above,” he said.
Although the route is not yet finalized, one possible route would connect two favorite tourist attractions — the Cerro del Fortín, where the annual Guelaguetza festival takes place, and the Álvaro Carrillo Theater.
However, Governor Jara stressed that the principal aim of the cable car system is to improve urban mobility by connecting strategic points within the city.
Another aim is to connect Oaxaca’s city center with the mountainous suburbs. One route under assessment would link the city with the Monte Albán archaeological site, around 10 kilometers away.
Governor Jara said the state plans to finance the project without relying on debt.
5 new Cablebús lines are coming to Mexico City
While on Sunday, Governor Jara was presenting the aerial tram plans for Oaxaca, in Mexico City President Claudia Sheinbaum and Mayor Clara Brugada were announcing the construction of the Tlalpan-Coyoacán Cablebús Line 4, which is expected to be the longest in the world.
The new line will be paid for using federal funds and is expected to transport 65,000 people per day over 11.4 km, which is further than the existing Iztapalapa line (11.2 km).
¡Impulsamos el progreso desde las alturas! 🚡⚡
La Línea 4 del Cablebús Tlalpan-Coyoacán será una realidad, y en la CFE estaremos orgullosos de ser parte fundamental de este proyecto que transforma la movilidad en la Ciudad de México.
On the ground, moving between Los Pedregales to the University City of Mexico’s National Autonomous University (UNAM) can take up to two hours in rush hour traffic, compared to the 40 minutes expected via Cablebús, noted Sheinbaum.
Line 4 will consist of eight stations: Universidad, Cantera, Perisur, Mercado Hidalgo, Reforma, Parque Morelos, Cultura Maya and Pedregal de San Nicolás.
It will also connect more than 30 neighborhoods in Tlalpan and nine in Coyoacán and will have connections to other public transportation modes, such as the Metro, allowing commuters to travel between the north and south of the city, according to Mexico City’s Transport Minister Ulises García.
Five Cablebús lines are expected to be completed during Brugada’s six-year term, with construction on the Álvaro Obregón-Magdalena Contreras and Milpa Alta-Tláhuac lines commencing this year, and the Cuajimalpa-Xochimilco line in 2026.
"Everything that Mexico had to do [to avoid a new tariff] is already done," Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard said on Tuesday. (Mario Jasso/Cuartoscuro)
Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard said Tuesday that the Mexican government has made every possible effort to stave off the 30% tariff the United States intends to impose on imports from Mexico starting this Friday.
He expressed optimism that Mexico will reach a deal with its northern neighbor to stop the duty from taking effect.
🚨 Trump se mantiene firme
Los aranceles del 30% entran en vigor el viernes.
“Ya todo lo que México tenía que hacer está hecho. Ahora tenemos que esperar”, decía Ebrard ayer.pic.twitter.com/UNFZhqs4vA
— Manuel Lopez San Martin (@MLopezSanMartin) July 30, 2025
“[The negotiations] have been very intense, complex. We’re hours away from knowing how this stage will conclude. My perspective is optimistic, but we have to wait for the decisions President Trump takes with his team,” Ebrard said at a press conference.
“Everything that Mexico had to do is already done,” he said.
Ebrard said that “the results” of Mexico’s negotiations with the United States over the 30% tariff will be known on Friday.
The Mexican government has spent much of 2025 attempting to negotiate relief from tariffs imposed by Donald Trump.
The latest trade negotiations came after the U.S. president informed President Claudia Sheinbaum in a July 11 letter that the United States, starting Aug. 1, would “charge Mexico a tariff of 30% on Mexican products sent into the United States, separate from all sectoral tariffs.”
Trump didn’t specify whether the 30% tariff would be added to — or replace — the existing 25% tariff that applies to Mexican goods that don’t comply with the USMCA free trade agreement.
Although the U.S. president appeared to imply that all Mexican goods would be subject to the 30% tariff, a common interpretation of his letter was that the new duty would only apply to non-USMCA compliant products, and would increase the current rate by five percentage points.
“The market so far has interpreted that the new tariff on Mexico represents only a marginal change from the status quo,” Ernesto Revilla, managing director and head of Latin America economics at Citigroup, wrote in Americas Quarterly on July 14.
“That is, it is a five-percentage-point increase in a tariff that applies to less than 20% of total trade between Mexico and the U.S. that is non-USMCA compliant,” he said.
The United States has not publicly clarified whether the 30% tariff will apply to all imports from Mexico or just those that don’t comply with the USMCA. However, an unnamed White House official told The New York Times that the exemption for USMCA-compliant goods would most likely continue.
“The official also said the 30 percent rate would replace the previous 25 percent levies that Mr. Trump imposed on the country,” the Times reported.
Trump explained the rationale for the 30% tariff in his letter to Sheinbaum.
“Despite our strong relationship, you will recall, the United States imposed tariffs on Mexico to deal with our nation’s fentanyl crisis, which is caused, in part, by Mexico’s failure to stop the cartels, who are made up of the most despicable people who have ever walked the earth, from pouring these drugs into our country. Mexico has been helping me secure the border, BUT, what Mexico has done, is not enough,” he wrote.
“Mexico still has not stopped the cartels who are trying to turn all of North America into a narco-trafficking playground. Obviously, I cannot let that happen!” Trump said.
Despite United States Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick saying on Sunday that there would be “no extensions” or “grace periods” for U.S trade partners, Sheinbaum has also expressed optimism that Mexico will reach a deal to ward off the 30% tariff. She said last Thursday that her government was doing everything it could to stop the new duty from taking effect.
“There is a team working in the United States with the [U.S.] commerce secretary and the treasury secretary,” Sheinbaum told her morning press conference on Thursday.
Sheinbaum said last week that she would seek to speak to Trump about the proposed 30% tariff “if it’s necessary.” (Daniel Augusto/Cuartoscuro)
“We made a series of proposals that have to do with Plan México and also reducing the trade deficit [with the United States], which is one of the concerns of President Trump,” she said.
“The trade deficit can be reduced through different mechanisms that don’t affect the economy of Mexico. So we’ve been making a series of proposals and we’ll present them here [at a later time], hoping that we reach an agreement.”
Sheinbaum also pointed out that fentanyl seizures at the Mexico-U.S. border have significantly declined since she took office last October.
What US tariffs currently apply to imports from Mexico?
These are the tariffs that are currently in effect for imports from Mexico.
Tariffs of 50% apply to Mexican steel and aluminum and hundreds of products made with those metals. The United States imposed a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum in March and increased the rate to 50% in June.
Tariffs on vehicles made in Mexico have been in effect since April 3. The United States imposed 25% tariffs on all vehicle imports on this date, but U.S. content in vehicles assembled in Mexico is exempt from the duty, lowering the effective tariff on vehicles made in Mexico.
Auto parts made in Mexico that don’t comply with USMCA rules have been subject to a 25% tariff since May. The vast majority of auto parts made in Mexico do comply with the USMCA and are therefore exempt from the tariff.
More than 80% of Mexico’s trade with US is tariff-free, says Ebrard
Although the United States currently imposes a range of tariffs on imports from Mexico, Ebrard said that 84% of Mexico’s trade with its northern neighbor complies with the USMCA and is therefore tariff-free.
The economy minister asserted that Mexico is in a good position in its trade relationship with the United States “if you compare the country’s situation to the rest of the world.”
Mexico was the top exporter to the United States in 2023 and 2024, and Ebrard asserted that it will retain that position “despite the tariffs.”
The secondary sector, which includes manufacturing and construction, grew 0.8% on a sequential basis in the second quarter. (Homa Appliances/Unsplash)
The Mexican economy grew more than expected in the second quarter of 2025, expanding 0.7% compared to the previous three-month period, according to preliminary data published by the national statistics agency INEGI on Wednesday.
The growth rate was 0.3 percentage points higher than the 0.4% median forecast of 13 analysts surveyed by Reuters.
INEGI also reported that the economy grew 1.2% annually in seasonally adjusted terms in the second quarter of the year. Unadjusted data showed a 0.1% annual growth rate for the three-month period between April and June.
Gabriela Siller, director of economic analysis at Banco Base, said on X that the INEGI data shows that it is “clear that Mexico is not in recession.”
“But that doesn’t mean the economy is doing well,” she added.
“There is still a risk of recession for Mexico, especially if the United States begins to strictly enforce tariffs or if more sectors are added to sectoral tariffs,” Siller wrote in a separate post.
The publication of the preliminary growth data for the second quarter of 2025 comes two days before the United States is scheduled to impose a 30% tariff on imports from Mexico, separate from sectoral tariffs that currently apply to steel, aluminum, cars and auto parts.
Manufacturing and services drive sequential growth in Q2
INEGI’s data shows that the secondary sector, which includes manufacturing and construction, grew 0.8% on a sequential basis in the second quarter.
Despite U.S. tariffs, Mexico’s export revenue — largely generated by manufacturing — continued to grow in the first half of 2025, increasing 4.4% annually.
Siller said on X that exports are “boosting” the Mexican economy.
In annual seasonally adjusted terms, the primary sector grew 4.5% in the second quarter, while the tertiary sector expanded 1.7%. The secondary sector contracted 0.2% annually in Q2.
IMF raises 2025 forecast for Mexico
Before the publication of INEGI’s Q2 growth data, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) raised its 2025 forecast for economic growth in Mexico to 0.2% from a previous projection of a 0.3% contraction.
July brought infrastructure expansion, culture and heavy rains to San Miguel de Allende. (Cvmontuy / CC BY-SA 4.0)
The last few weeks have been big for San Miguel de Allende!
Our city was named Best City in the World by Travel + Leisure again, and news broke that a new airport may be on the horizon. These developments add to a surge of international attention and expansion, from another luxury hotel opening its doors soon to major cultural events like the GIFF film festival starting this month.
San Miguel is a major tourist destination in Central Mexico. (Melissa Guadalupe Huertas / CC BY-SA 4.0)
But as San Miguel continues to grow, so do the questions. How do we preserve the soul of the city we love? What does all this development mean for locals, long-time residents and visitors?
San Miguel was named the World’s Best City, but what do you think makes it truly special?
San Miguel has earned global praise for its iconic architecture, vibrant arts and rich traditions. But as Ricardo Ferro Baeza, president of the local Congress Tourism Commission, put it, what truly sets it apart is its people, the ones who bring it to life.
So now we want to hear from you. Whether you live here full time, visit often, or have been here once: Tell us what you love most about San Miguel and how you feel about all the international attention the city’s been getting.
Time's up
Your responses may be featured in an upcoming story exploring how the people who know San Miguel best — you, its residents and visitors — feel about the growth and changes shaping the city.
GIFF 2025 brings global cinema to San Miguel
The Guanajuato International Film Festival runs through Aug. 4. (GIFF)
The 28th Guanajuato International Film Festival (GIFF) has returned. Until July 31, San Miguel will shine as a key venue, offering not only screenings but also a tribute to legendary artist Verónica Castro, an undeniable symbol of Mexican pop culture.
In San Miguel, Castro will receive two major honors: the Women in Film and Television Mexico Award and the silver Más Cine award. After years away from the spotlight, her return promises to deeply move audiences who grew up watching her tenovelas, dramas and comedies.
While the full GIFF 2025 lineup includes over 200 films from 61 countries and events across Guanajuato city, Irapuato and San Miguel, the San Miguel portion stands out for its tributes, open-air screenings and cultural venues like Jardín Principal, Teatro Ángela Peralta and the Centro Cultural Ignacio Ramírez “El Nigromante.”
San Miguel de Allende’s tourism sector expands once again
Other Pueblo Bonito resorts include locations in Mazatlán and Cabo San Lucas. (Pueblo Bonito)
Tourism in San Miguel de Allende continues its upward trajectory, with new hotel developments and infrastructure projects signaling increased international interest. Notably, the highly anticipated Pueblo Bonito Vantage San Miguel de Allende is set to open on Aug. 15, promising to bring a fresh wave of ultra-luxury hospitality to the city.
Located in the tranquil and strategically developed Distrito Corazón area, Pueblo Bonito Vantage will offer 111 suites and 45 private residences designed in elegant neo-colonial style, blending San Miguel’s historic charm with modern comforts. Guests will be able to enjoy five distinct dining venues ranging from gourmet experiences to casual poolside lounges, as well as an expansive spa and wellness center. Pueblo Bonito’s event spaces will also make it an ideal venue for weddings, conferences and other high-profile gatherings.
Alongside Pueblo Bonito’s arrival, Meliá Hotels International has announced plans to expand into San Miguel by 2028, further confirming the city’s appeal as a destination for luxury and international tourism. Meanwhile, discussions about establishing a regional airport near San Miguel could enhance accessibility, potentially drawing more visitors and boosting the local economy.
San Miguel native rescued from Texas floods
More than 100 people have been confirmed dead or missing in the central Texas floods. (World Central Kitchen)
A 19-year-old from San Miguel de Allende has survived the devastating floods in Texas that tragically claimed the lives of his father, stepmother and younger brother. Leonardo Jr., known as “Leo,” was found alive after being swept away by the Guadalupe River last week. He remains hospitalized as he recovers from the traumatic event.
In response, San Miguel de Allende mayor Mauricio Trejo Pureco confirmed that the municipal government has a dedicated support fund for migrants to support families like the Romeros. “Over a year ago, I said San Miguel had a fund to help our migrant brothers and sisters in case of tragedy or deportation,” Trejo stated. “It’s there to help ease the financial burden during already difficult situations like this one.”
The mayor also recently highlighted San Miguel’s broader migrant support initiative. Since the onset of more aggressive U.S. immigration policies, the city has activated a temporary employment program designed to welcome deported residents back with economic opportunity and community reintegration. “Here in your homeland, you are wanted. Here in your homeland, you are needed,” Trejo said. “Here you will find work… where you can bring all the skills or trades you learned in the United States to teach them here.”
One recent example: A deported Sanmiguelense received municipal funding to start a carpentry business and now plans to run a skills workshop for local youth.
Heavy rains trigger controlled release at Allende dam
The Presa Allende dam can hold up to 170 million cubic liters of water. (Gobierno de Guanajuato)
In response to the season’s heavy rains, authorities began a controlled release from the Presa Allende dam on July 17 at 5 p.m., discharging water at a rate of 50 cubic meters per second after the reservoir reached over 93% capacity. This is a stark contrast to the same time last year, when the dam sat at 30%. Officials have issued flood alerts across San Miguel de Allende and nine other municipalities, asking residents to stay alert and avoid rivers.
The Presa Allende is a vital resource for San Miguel de Allende, supplying much of the city’s water for homes, agriculture and businesses. It also helps regulate river flow to reduce flood risks during heavy rains and supports local ecosystems. Because of its central role, changes in the dam’s water levels have a direct impact on the community’s water security, economy and safety.
Did you know?
San Miguel de Allende is the current setting for “Leche Roja” (Red Milk) a poetic and experimental vampire mini-series based on the story of Eva, a 300-year-old vampire. Structured as a trilogy of short episodes, the first has already been filmed, while the second — set in San Miguel — draws on the city’s cinematic allure, from its cobblestone streets to its dramatic architecture. The final episode is planned for filming in Morelia, Michoacán.
So far, there’s no official word on which platform will distribute “Leche Roja.” The creators plan to debut it on the festival circuit before exploring online release options.
As the Guelaguetza comes to an end, Oaxaca breaks into celebration, with festivals, ceremonies and mezcal galore! (Juan Flores)
After the excitement of Guelaguetza in July, August is a quieter time to visit Oaxaca. There is still some rain, but it is less humid and cooler in the evenings. It is a beautiful, lush time to explore in and around the city, including day trips to learn about mezcal or visit archaeological sites. There is also a wealth of exhibitions and events to experience.
Espadín y Tierra 2025, or Espaterra, seeks to preserve, promote and showcase the cultural, social and economic value of espadín mezcal, typically cultivated and produced by Oaxaca’s rural communities. The event is a space for meeting, memory and collective reflection of the 17 mezcal-producing regions of Oaxaca. Espaterra’s closing event, a colloquium on mezcal with researchers and palenqueros, including a screening of the documentary “45 grados: La industrialización del mezcal artensanal,” takes place on Aug. 1.
When: Aug. 1 at 10 a.m. Where: UNAM-Oaxaca extension, Melchor Ocampo 102, Centro, Oaxaca de Juárez Cost: Free entry but attendees must register here
This is the first edition of this moving event at Oruga, a photo gallery and mezcalería. “We are proud and happy to open the doors of this space to friends of the mezcal industry to share their knowledge, experiences and, of course, mezcal,” Oruga says. The event will include traditional mezcals from Indigenous communities.
When: Aug. 1 and 2 Where: Oruga, Av. José María Morelos 1207, Centro, Oaxaca de Juárez Cost: Free
Last days of the Feria Artesanal de Arrazola
(Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán)
San Antonio Arrazola is located 10 kilometers southwest of Oaxaca city, off the highway to Zaachila. Known as Arrazola, the community is famous for its beautiful alebrijes, figures made from different types of paper or carved and painted wood in bright, vibrant colors, representing fantastical jaguars, mermaids and nahuales. Although alebrijes are made using various techniques today, this community stands out for its use of wood carving, a skill passed down from generation to generation.
When: Until Aug. 3, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Where: Andador Turístico de Arrazola Cost: Free
Each year, the municipality of San Mateo Río Hondo holds a festival to celebrate mushrooms. At over 2,300 meters above sea level in Oaxaca’s Sierra Sur, Río Hondo is a fertile land of beautiful, misty landscapes. During the rainy season, mushrooms of various sizes, shapes and colors flourish, marveling locals and foreigners alike, who are drawn from all over the country and the world to learn about, taste and benefit from the properties of these fungi. Magic mushrooms are also in season. Over the three days there will be workshops, foraging excursions and tasting events.
San Bartolo Coyotepec is celebrating its Guelaguetza until Aug. 7. 30 minutes from Oaxaca city, just past the airport, San Bartolo is known for its tradition of black pottery. In the 1960s, a local artisan named Rosa Real Mateo de Nieto made a discovery that changed the local tradition: firing pieces at lower temperatures and then burnishing them with quartz before they were fully dry gave the fired clay a shiny, jet-black finish. More than half of San Bartolo’s population participates in black pottery production, and their annual fair celebrates this staple of the town’s culture.
When: Aug. 1 through 7, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Where: Mercado de Barro Negro “Plaza Artesanal,” Benito Juárez 37, San Bartolo Coyotepec Cost: Free
Feast of Our Lady of the Angels
(Casa Colibri)
Our Lady of the Angels is celebrated at the Ex-Convento de los Siete Principes with religious activities, calendas, music and fireworks. The church and the attached former convent were built in the 18th century and currently house the Oaxaca House of Culture (CCO), a cultural center. While the feast is celebrated throughout the Catholic world, it holds special significance for Franciscans and their devotion to Our Lady of the Angels. In Mexico, various churches and chapels are dedicated to this apparition of Mary, reflecting the spread of Franciscan influence and devotion.
When: Aug. 15 at 8 a.m. Where: González Ortega 415, Centro, Oaxaca de Juárez Cost: Free
Venezuelan singer-songwriter José y el Toro has established himself as one of the new exponents of bolero in Latin America, revitalizing the genre with a unique fusion of classic and modern elements. Through his narrative style and ability to capture the essence of love and nostalgia, José has resonated deeply with audiences on social media. Songs like “Reloj Ingrato,” “Cuando Cuando” and “Nunca Fuimos” have demonstrated his talent for connecting with people’s emotions through his compositions.
When: August 9 at 8 p.m. Where: Foro la Locomotora, Av. José María Morelos 1309, Centro, Oaxaca de Juárez Cost:300 pesos
Day of the Taxi Driver
(Carolina Jiménez/Cuartoscuro)
Taxi drivers decorate their cars with flowers and ribbons to parade through the city on Oaxaca’s Día del Taxista. It’s a loud celebration, with bands and fireworks starting early in the morning.
The day is a chance for taxi drivers to celebrate their profession and for the community to acknowledge their role in transportation. Those in town should be aware that traffic will be affected.
When: Aug. 12, all day Where: Across Oaxaca city Cost: None
At the beginning of the 20th century, German anthropologist Wilhelm Bauer traveled to Oaxaca to collect artifacts and information about the Mazatec people. His work now forms the Mazatec collection of the Ethnological Museum of Berlin, which collaborated with the Juan de Córdova research library to create “Presencia mazateca en Berlín: Tras las huellas de Wilhelm Bauer-Thoma, 1903-1908.” This exhibition presents information and records of these artifacts, as well as historical photographs and documents that will allow present-day Mazatec communities to learn about these records of their history through a traveling exhibition.
Location: Biblioteca de Investigación Juan de Córdova, Av. de la Independencia 904, Centro Oaxaca de Juárez Date: Through Aug. 15 Cost: Free
Feast of the Assumption celebrations
(Mexico Insider)
The Feast of the Assumption is celebrated at the Catedral de Oaxaca in the heart of the city. Also known as the Church of the Assumption, construction on the church began in 1535, and it was consecrated in 1733. As the Cathedral’s name indicates, the Cathedral is dedicated to Our Lady of the Assumption. Assumption Day commemorates the belief that when Mary, mother of Jesus, died, with her body taken into heaven to be reunited with her soul. The day celebrating the feast of Assumption includes religious activities, calendas, music and fireworks.
When: Aug. 15 at 7:30 p.m. Where: Cathedral of the Assumption, Av. de la Independencia 700, Centro, Oaxaca de Juárez
Blessing of the animals at Templo de La Merced
(Carolina Jiménez Mariscal/Cuartoscuro)
During the feast of San Ramón, people take their dressed-up pets to be blessed in the church of La Merced. It’s not just cats and dogs: there are birds, lizards, rabbits and sheep, among other critters. Many are dressed to impress, either in cute outfits or something more grand. To capture this fun tradition, I arrive early; If you get there around 3:30 p.m., you’ll be able to take pictures of the animals before the blessing begins. The blessing is a tradition rooted in honoring the service animals provide and seeking their good health and fertility.
When: Aug. 31 at 4 p.m. Where: Templo de La Merced, Av. de la Independencia 1300, Centro, Oaxaca de Juárez Cost: Free
Anna Bruce is an award-winning British photojournalist based in Oaxaca, Mexico. Just some of the media outlets she has worked with include Vice, The Financial Times, Time Out, Huffington Post, The Times of London, the BBC and Sony TV. Find out more about her work at her website or visit her on social media on Instagram or on Facebook.
There's plenty to do in the Riviera Maya and Yucatán this month, so make sure to check out one of these fantastic events! (Cancún Mío)
This August on the Yucatán Peninsula, there’s swim races, a honey celebration, pirate scavenger hunts and the chance to get trapped in a bubble. And that’s just to start!
Cancún is hosting Mexico’s second largest Guelaguetza festival while Isla Mujeres is having a monthlong birthday party. So make the most of the last days of summer, and get out and about for these events in the Riviera Maya and Yucatán!
Come cheer me on — yes, that’s right, I’m entered in Oceanman! This 10-kilometer open-swimming race is a fun activity that fills up fast with swimmers arriving on Cozumel from all over the world. Offering great beaches, awesome food at the beach club and, of course, the exciting atmosphere of an Oceanman event. All with gorgeous Caribbean views!
Dates: Aug. 1–3 Location: Playa Palancar Beach Club, Cozumel Cost: free to attend, entries now closed
I would be heading to Cancún for this festival if I weren’t going to be in Cozumel swimming in Oceanman. The Guelaguetza, one of Mexico’s most iconic cultural celebrations, will be celebrated in Cancún in August.
With its vibrant offerings of Oaxacan folklore, music, dance and cuisine, this is an opportunity to feel like you’re visiting Oaxaca, with over 80 artists. Pooches are welcome too. In fact, they encourage you to dress your dog in honor of Oaxaca’s famous Guelaguetza dancing dog, Mazapán! Fun for the whole family.
Feliz Cumpleaños Isla Mujeres! Celebrate its 175th birthday this August with a monthlong lineup of activities — everything from art, dancing and lucha libre to gastronomy and concerts. And, naturally, plenty of processions. There’s something going on all the time during the first two weeks of August.
But August 17 is the focal point, when Isla Mujeres officially honors its birthday with ceremonies and concerts. There is also the big Descent of the Virgin procession on August 5.
Explore a Maya relationship dating back thousands of years — between man and the Melipona, a tiny stingless bee found in the quiet jungle village of Cobá. Taking place in Coba’s cultural center, this free event will teach you about the sacred Mayan practice of meliponiculture and its delicious offerings.
Try local honey-based recipes, and attend a cooking contest highlighting dishes, drinks and desserts sweetened with it. Kids, there’s also a drawing competition to express the ecological importance of bees.
Grab friends and family and explore Playa del Carmen on a scavenger hunt. Fun for all ages, this event allows you to take as long as you want and see sites from ancient Mayan ruins to colorful local markets. Included are iconic local spots such as the Portal Maya, Parque Leona Vicario and the Palacio Municipal Bell Tower. Don’t forget your camera, there are points for the best photo, and it’s a great way to see Playa.
It’s fun in the sun as each August, Cancún celebrates its beautiful beaches with La Fiesta de la Playa. I can’t blame them, sugary-white-sand beaches are worth celebrating.
You’ll find beach parties going on all along the hotel zone with live music, great food and lots of cocktail options available. Most hotels sell a day pass with all-inclusive food and drink so that you can party the day away. Just choose which place takes your fancy and grab your bikini!
Dates: August 11–13 Location: Various hotels and beach clubs in Cancun’s hotel zone Cost: Free entertainment, optional day pass options to all-inclusives at varying costs
Seafood lovers, grab your bibs. It’s time to enjoy the flavor of local langosta at this year’s lobster festival. Open to all, it’s a celebration of the Caribbean’s spiny lobster, presented every way possible.
From rustic wood-fire cooking to elegant professional presentations, there will be cooking demonstrations, competitions and much more starting in the afternoons, showcasing the region’s culinary and cultural identity.
Pro tip: If you attend the Punta Allen events, be aware that this small, unspoiled fishing village has no banks or ATMs. Bring sufficient cash since most places in Punta Allen don’t accept electronic payments.
Dates: Aug. 15–17 Location: At Tulum’s Municipal Palace esplanade on Aug. 15, and in Punta Allen Aug. 16–17 Cost: Free to enter
I’ve lived in this region for eight years, and dancing the night away is a perfect end to summer. So, head to Isla Mujeres’ Bahía del Rey beach club and make memories dancing to live acts — including local Afro-House electronica artist made good Katia Crown, now based in Miami — all in front of gorgeous ocean views!
This is a time of fewer tourists, warm waters and clear nights under the stars — the perfect time to enjoy with hot tunes and cold drinks.
Dates: Aug. 16, 3 pm–midnight Location: Bahia del Rey beach club, Avenida Rueda Medina, Bahía, Isla Mujeres Cost: 432 pesos
Open to all ages, I’ve got this one earmarked next time I’m in Tulum. Not just because I love Frida Kahlo, but because it’s an immersive guided tour that requires you to “open your eyes, ears, and nose,” which I am curious about. What is there to smell?
You just can’t beat a good sensory experience in my book!
Dates: Aug. 20, 3 p.m. Location: Frida Kahlo Museum, Crucero de las Ruinas de Tulum,Tulum Cost: Foreign adults: 400 pesos; Mexican adults: 300 pesos; Q.Roo residents with I.D.: 200 pesos
I adore art and am officially putting this on the “fun things to do in Playa del Carmen” list. The 3D Museum of Wonders is fun no matter your age. Your guide will take photos, so there’ll be fun keepsakes like this to keep for free.
In these illusions, I got trapped in a bubble, played ballerina on top of a giant cake, stood on a rock pinnacle in the Grand Canyon, broke into a bank vault, drank wine poured by a god and much more!
Dates: Any day between 8 a.m.—10 p.m. Location: 10 Avenida between 8th and 10th street, Playa del Carmen. Cost: Adults 700 pesos, kids 600 pesos
Bel Woodhouse, Mexico Correspondent for International Living, is an experienced writer, author, photographer and videographer with more than 500 articles published both in print and across digital platforms. Having lived in the Mexican Caribbean for over seven years now, she’s in love with Mexico and has no plans to go anywhere anytime soon.
