By Maria Ruiz
The National Meteorological System (SMN) forecasts that this year’s rainy season, which runs from May to November, will be intense in some parts of the country. That includes San Miguel de Allende, and Civil Protection has already created the 2023 Contingency Plan for the city. A similar plan was implemented in May 2021 when floods were recorded in various San Miguel vicinities. Following are the recommendations for the San Miguel community especially for those who live next to bodies of water.
Before heavy rains:
– Sweep your street.
– Keep your roof, downspouts, drainage, and street drains clean of garbage.
– Avoid throwing newspapers on the street.
– Avoid dumping debris and garbage along the river or on the slopes and ravines.
– Create an electronic backup of your important physical documents.
– Keep your important physical documents in a plastic bag.
– Make a family plan for flood events—especially if there are children or people with disabilities at home.
During heavy rain:
– Keep calm.
– Stay home or seek shelter and evacuate during a possible flood.
– Call 911 in case of risk.
– Avoid crossing rivers, streams, or flooded areas.
– Seek protection except under trees or in high places.
– Don’t use your car.
– If you drive, do so with extreme caution. Turn on your lights, check the condition of the tires and windshield wipers, avoid puddles and flooded areas, keep your eyes on the road, and double your safety distance.
– Disconnect electricity and gas services.
– Verify that there are no water or LP gas leaks.
– Have an emergency telephone directory handy.
After the rain:
– Follow the instructions of competent authorities.
– Get informed with official notices.
– Avoid approaching fences at risk of collapse.
– Stay away from watercourses.
– Avoid driving on hills at risk of collapse.
The municipal government will be attentive to any emergency and will constantly monitor the areas with the highest risk identified by Civil Protection as well as road safety on highways, avenues, streets, and neighboring roads. Similarly, six temporary municipal shelters are enabled in case of evacuations.
