Governor Salomón Jara Cruz launches the Regional Council for Civil Protection and Risk Management 2025 in Puerto Escondido, activating preparedness protocols and dengue prevention measures as Oaxaca braces for an above-average rainy and hurricane season.
In a proactive move to safeguard lives and property during the upcoming rainy and cyclone season, Governor Salomón Jara Cruz convened the inaugural meeting of the Regional Council for Civil Protection and Risk Management 2025. The council, established under the governor’s leadership, is tasked with coordinating surveillance, assistance, and immediate response protocols across federal, state, and municipal levels.
Speaking from Puerto Escondido, Jara Cruz emphasized that “foresight is the best tool and civil protection is a culture that must be strengthened every day.” He announced that his administration has activated, ahead of time, a comprehensive set of protocols in collaboration with the Armed Forces and federal and municipal authorities. “Let’s prepare responsibly to save the most valuable thing the population has, which is the lives of each and every one of us. Our government is built on prevention, with a comprehensive approach to risk management and a humane approach,” he stated.
As part of the council’s mandate, Jara Cruz urged municipalities to form their own local civil protection councils, noting that municipal governments represent the first line of defense during emergencies. “Local councils are critical; they know their communities best and can respond immediately when disaster strikes,” he said.
During the session, Manuel Maza Sánchez, head of the State Coordination of Civil Protection and Risk Management (CEPCyGR), presented the anticipated meteorological outlook for Oaxaca and the Gulf of Mexico. He forecasted that along Oaxaca’s Pacific coast, the 2025 season could bring eight to nine tropical storms, four to five strong hurricanes (Categories 1 and 2), and an additional four to six intense hurricanes (Categories 3, 4, and 5). In the Gulf of Mexico, officials expect between seven and nine tropical storms; three to four major hurricanes at levels 1 and 2; and three to four intense hurricanes of Categories 3 through 5.
Maza Sánchez also highlighted that June rainfall is projected to exceed historical averages, with total precipitation estimated at 115.7 millimeters—significantly above past years’ norms. He identified 30 municipalities at highest risk of direct storm impacts: 18 along the coastal strip and 12 in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. He noted that “permanent surveillance” efforts will focus on 109 at-risk municipalities, including 40 in the Sierra Sur region, 22 in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, and 47 along the coast.
Beyond storm preparedness, the state government has prioritized public health measures to curb dengue transmission amid the wetter weather. Oaxaca Health Services (SSO) is coordinating with municipal authorities to eliminate mosquito breeding sites in private and public spaces. Key actions include clearing standing water from yards, rooftops, and any containers capable of holding rainwater. “Effective dengue prevention begins at home,” said a health official, underscoring the importance of community involvement in vector control.
The newly formed Regional Council for Civil Protection and Risk Management 2025 will oversee regular drills, community outreach campaigns, and real-time weather monitoring. Its integrated strategy aims not only to respond to disasters but also to build long-term resilience through public education and infrastructure reinforcement.
Governor Jara Cruz concluded by reiterating the administration’s commitment to a prevention-first philosophy. “Building a culture of civil protection requires the participation of every citizen,” he said. “Our collective vigilance and preparedness will determine how well we weather these challenges.”
