The dog days are one of the most feared and talked-about periods of the year in various countries across the Northern Hemisphere. As we enter the summer months of 2025, much of Mexico is preparing to experience this phenomenon, characterized by a significant rise in temperatures and a marked decrease in rainfall. These are weeks when the heat can become a real challenge, especially in regions where humidity is low and the sun takes center stage.
During the dog days, the temperature can soar and reach really high levels, putting both the population and agricultural, livestock, and civil protection infrastructure to the test. It is a critical period for those living in vulnerable areas, especially for children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.
What exactly is dog days?
The dog days are not just a heat wave, but a meteorological phenomenon that occurs in the middle of summer, generally between early July and mid-August. It is characterized by a temporary decrease in rainfall and an increase in temperatures, leading to particularly hot and dry days. This effect is primarily felt in several regions of southeastern, central, and northeastern Mexico, although its intensity and duration can vary from year to year.
In 2025, according to forecasts by experts and organizations such as the National Meteorological Service (SMN) and the National Water Commission (Conagua), The dog days will start on July 3 and end on August 11. Although these dates are approximate, the period typically lasts about 40 days. This is when the highest temperatures of the year are reached, sometimes exceeding 45°C in some areas.
States most affected during the 2025 heatwave
The impact of the heat wave is not the same throughout the country. The southeast stands out as the hardest hit region, with states such as Campeche, Chiapas, Tabasco, Veracruz, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo experiencing extreme highs and limited rainfall. The center of the country is also not spared from the heat, especially in Morelos, Hidalgo, Puebla, Guerrero, Oaxaca, Colima, Michoacán, San Luis Potosí, Guanajuato, and Tlaxcala. Even northern areas, such as Nuevo León, Tamaulipas, and occasionally Sonora and Baja California, are also affected, although in the latter two the impact tends to be more moderate.
In contrast, Mexico City, Zacatecas and part of the northwest have a lower incidence, thanks to local atmospheric conditions that help cushion temperatures during this period.
Risks and consequences of extreme heat
The heat wave increases health risks, especially among the elderly, children, and those with chronic conditions. Among the most notable dangers are heat exhaustion, dehydration, and respiratory problems. Furthermore, the lack of humidity and rainfall favor forest fires, complicate agricultural and livestock activities, and worsen the drought in several regions.
The dog days should not be confused with heat waves, as the latter can occur at any time for various atmospheric reasons, while the dog days are an annual period clearly identified in the Mexican climate calendar.
Recommended protective measures
- Stay hydrated: Drink water regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty.
- Avoid direct exposure to the sun between 11:00 p.m. and 16:00 p.m.
- wear light clothing, preferably light colors and breathable materials.
- Apply sunscreen and wear a cap or hat.
- Stay in cool, well-ventilated places, especially during the hottest hours.
- Do not leave people, pets or food inside parked vehicles., since the temperature rises rapidly in closed spaces.
- Pay special attention to children, the elderly, and people with chronic illnesses, since they are the most sensitive to the effects of extreme heat.
- Refrigerate food properly and maintain extreme hygiene., in order to avoid poisoning.
Following these recommendations can make a difference to get through this period of intense heat without major complications.
The 2025 heat wave is shaping up to be a challenging period for most of Mexico. With temperatures that can easily exceed 40°C (XNUMX°F) and a drought that puts the agricultural, livestock, and public health sectors to the test, it is essential to take preventive measures. Staying informed, maintaining hydration, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak hours are simple but highly effective measures to minimize the risks associated with this climatic phenomenon.
