Chihuahua, Mexico – Residents across the Mexican state of Chihuahua are bracing for continued strong winds and fluctuating temperatures as the region remains under a preventative advisory. The turbulent weather is the result of a complex interplay of weather systems, including the lingering effects of Cold Front 36 and the potential arrival of Cold Front 37, according to state authorities. While no widespread rainfall is anticipated, the strong gusts pose a risk of damage to infrastructure and potential hazards for those outdoors.
The current weather pattern, as detailed by Protección Civil del Estado, is a confluence of several atmospheric factors. Cold Front 36 continues to influence the northwest and northern parts of the country, while a possible Cold Front 37 approaches. These are compounded by a polar trough to the extreme northwest of Mexico, jet stream currents, a low-pressure channel, a dry line over Coahuila, an anticyclone in the mid-levels of the atmosphere, and moisture entering from the Pacific Ocean. This combination is creating a stark contrast between cooler mornings and warmer afternoons in lower elevations, with very cold conditions and potential frost in the mountainous areas.
Strong Winds and Potential for Damage
The most immediate concern is the intensity of the winds. The capital city of Chihuahua is forecast to experience gusts exceeding 55 kilometers per hour (approximately 34 miles per hour) on Thursday, February 19th, 2026, with a high temperature of 27°C (81°F). Puente Libre reports that even stronger winds are expected in several municipalities across the state. The strongest gusts, potentially exceeding 75 kilometers per hour (46 miles per hour), are predicted for areas in the northwest, west, southwest, and central regions, including Janos, Casas Grandes, Nuevo Casas Grandes, Madera, Temósachi, Namiquipa, Guerrero, Bocoyna, Guachochi, Cuauhtémoc, and Majalca. Ascensión, Buenaventura, and Guadalupe y Calvo, located in the northwest and southwest, could see wind gusts surpass 65 kilometers per hour (40 miles per hour).
The impact of these winds has already been felt across the state. La Jornada reports that five municipalities have experienced damage attributed to the strong winds associated with Cold Front 36. These include the partial collapse of a house roof, the fall of a billboard, 42 fallen trees, and damage to billboards and fences. Two people sustained minor injuries due to falls related to the windy conditions in Ciudad Juárez.
In Ciudad Juárez, authorities responded to three reports of roofs being torn off, seven fallen trees, a detached banner from a billboard, a collapsed chain-link fence, and disruptions to high-voltage power lines in the Centro neighborhood. Ciudad Cuauhtémoc reported fallen trees and detached sheeting, while Nuevo Casas Grandes and Janos experienced downed power poles. The state’s Civil Protection Coordination (CEPC) is urging residents to accept precautions, including securing or removing loose objects from roofs, patios, and balconies, limiting outdoor activities, and avoiding perform at heights.
Protección Civil Issues Safety Recommendations
The state government, through Protección Civil, is actively disseminating safety advice to residents. Ochocolumnas.net details recommendations including avoiding proximity to unstable structures, damaged fences, or compromised roofs. Pet owners are also being advised to keep their animals indoors, as reported by Tiempo La Noticia Digital. These precautions are particularly important given the potential for structures weakened by age or previous weather events to fail under the strain of the strong winds.
Authorities are also monitoring for the onset of “tolvaneras,” dust storms, which are common in the region during this time of year. diario.mx reports that the season for these dust storms has begun, adding another layer of complexity to the weather situation.
Looking Ahead: Continued Vigilance
While the immediate threat of widespread rainfall appears low, the strong winds are expected to persist. The combination of these conditions necessitates continued vigilance from residents and adherence to the safety recommendations issued by Protección Civil. The state government is actively monitoring the situation and providing updates as they become available. The interaction of multiple weather systems creates a dynamic and potentially hazardous environment, requiring ongoing assessment and preparedness.
The current situation highlights the increasing frequency of extreme weather events and the importance of robust infrastructure and effective disaster preparedness. As climate patterns continue to shift, communities in Chihuahua, and elsewhere, will need to adapt to the challenges posed by these changing conditions. The focus remains on minimizing risk and ensuring the safety of residents during this period of heightened weather activity.
The next official update from Protección Civil del Estado is expected on Friday, February 20th, 2026, at 10:00 AM CST. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and to report any damage or emergencies to the appropriate authorities. Please share this information with your networks and stay safe.