Mexico’s diverse geography and geological setting expose it to a range of natural phenomena. Its position at the intersection of several tectonic plates leads to frequent seismic activity. Extensive coastlines on the Pacific Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea make it vulnerable to powerful storms. The varied topography, from high mountains to coastal plains, creates conditions for various weather-related events.
Earthquakes and Volcanic Eruptions
Mexico is a seismically active nation, primarily situated on the North American Plate but also interacting with the Cocos, Pacific, Rivera, and Caribbean plates. The subduction of the Cocos plate beneath the North American plate off the southern coast is a significant source of frequent and powerful earthquakes. Additionally, the Pacific and North American plates grind past each other, extending the San Andreas Fault system in the Baja California region.
The country experiences thousands of earthquakes annually, though most are of low magnitude and go unnoticed. On average, about 40 to 50 earthquakes below magnitude 5 occur each year. Historically, earthquakes of magnitude 7 or greater happen approximately every three years, while those of magnitude 8 or more occur roughly every 25 years. Mexico City, built on a former lakebed, can experience amplified seismic effects even from distant quakes due to its soft soil.
Mexico is also part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, home to 35 Holocene volcanoes, with 12 currently considered active. Popocatépetl, located southeast of Mexico City, is one of the country’s most active volcanoes. This stratovolcano has been erupting since January 2005, characterized by ongoing emissions of gas, steam, and ash. Other active volcanoes include Colima and El Chichón, which had a notable eruption in 1982.
Hurricanes and Tropical Storms
Mexico’s extensive coastlines make it highly susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms. The official hurricane season spans from May to November, with peak activity in September for both the Atlantic and Pacific basins. These powerful weather systems often bring high winds, torrential rainfall, and significant storm surges.
These impacts can cause widespread damage to coastal infrastructure, homes, and tourism sectors. Inland areas also face risks from heavy rainfall, which can lead to extensive flooding. For example, Hurricane Wilma in 2005 caused widespread destruction across the Yucatán Peninsula, affecting resort areas like Cancún. Hurricane John in 2024 resulted in heavy flooding and landslides across states such as Guerrero, Michoacán, and Oaxaca.
Other Weather-Related Hazards
Beyond major seismic events and hurricanes, Mexico also contends with other weather and climate-related hazards. Widespread flooding, often independent of tropical cyclones, occurs due to intense rainfall, particularly in urban centers like Mexico City. In 2025, the National Water Commission reported June as the third-rainiest month since 1985, contributing to urban flooding.
Prolonged droughts are a recurring challenge, especially in Mexico’s northern and central regions. These dry spells impact agriculture and strain water resources. In 2020, over 70% of the nation was affected by drought, and by May 2024, nearly 76% of the country experienced drought conditions, leading to concerns about water shortages and agricultural production.
Landslides and mudslides are another frequent hazard, often triggered by intense rainfall associated with heavy downpours or tropical storms, particularly in mountainous areas. Between 1925 and 2017, Mexico recorded nearly 2,000 landslides, resulting in over 3,400 fatalities, with central and southern states most affected. Wildfires also pose a threat during dry seasons, from January to June, with peak activity between March and May. Dry vegetation and warm, windy conditions create an environment conducive to these blazes, which can affect thousands of hectares across multiple states.