When the sky overflows: cyclones and extreme rainfall in Morelia

Abstract

In Morelia, heavy rains can transform the city into temporary rivers, affecting streets, homes, and daily activities. Although the city is not located in a coastal zone, many of these events are linked to tropical cyclones that form hundreds of kilometers away and transport large amounts of moisture toward inland regions. This article explains, in simple terms, how extreme precipitation events associated with tropical cyclones are identified, their influence on the city, and the importance of prevention and preparedness. It describes methods for analyzing historical rainfall data, determining thresholds for extreme events, and correlating them with cyclone trajectories. The narrative combines scientific explanations with local examples to show that even inland areas can experience significant impacts from distant atmospheric phenomena.