Energy

Tropical storm: electrical hazards and prevention

4 September, 2025

Tropical storms pose a direct threat to industrial electrical infrastructure in Mexico. Learn more about the operational effects, associated electrical risks, and key technical measures to protect facilities during the Atlantic hurricane season.

They are a major challenge for electrical infrastructure and pose significant risks to the operational continuity of the commercial sector, especially industrial companies.

Due to its geographical location, Mexico is particularly vulnerable to these weather phenomena, which can cause prolonged power outages, damage to sensitive equipment, and even occupational safety risks. Therefore, understanding the risks and taking preventive measures is crucial to safeguarding human capital, assets, and the continuous production of industrial equipment or machinery.

What is a tropical storm?

According to the World Meteorological Organization, a tropical storm is a natural low-pressure phenomenon with sustained winds reaching speeds between 63 and 118 km/h, accompanied by heavy rain, thunderstorms, and swells.

These storms, with their fierce winds and heavy rains, can develop into hurricanes, further increasing their severity and destructive potential. During the Atlantic hurricane season, which in Mexico runs from June to November, various areas of the country are repeatedly affected, including regions such as the Yucatan Peninsula, the Gulf of Mexico and, to a lesser extent, northern regions.

Impact of tropical storms and their risks on electrical infrastructure

The impact of a tropical storm on electrical infrastructure can be devastating, creating significant risks for industrial operations. Intense winds, torrential rains, and simultaneous lightning strikes create critical conditions that affect both the operation and physical integrity of systems.

Because of this, during the Atlantic hurricane season, the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) activates its “Manual of Technical Procedures for Disaster Response,” dealing with events that affect millions of users and cause millions of dollars in damage to critical infrastructure.

The main risks and impacts include:

Prolonged power outages due to fallen poles, transmission lines, or transformers. The CFE has documented impacts on millions of users during each hurricane season, as occurred in Oaxaca and Guerrero after Tropical Storm Erick in June 2025.
Interruptions and failures in supply as heavy rains cause flooding that leads to short circuits in critical equipment such as transformers and distribution boards. The National Energy Control Center (CENACE) identifies this as a primary cause of failures.
Physical damage and degradation from flying debris that can break solar panels or damage exposed wiring. Moisture and salt in coastal environments accelerate corrosion, deteriorating electrical systems.
High risk of electrocution from live wires in flooded areas. Short circuit and overload failures can trigger electrical fires.
Impact on power quality and critical processes because voltage fluctuations damage sensitive industrial machinery, and prolonged outages severely impact production, the supply chain, and the company’s reputation.

Recommendations for protecting electrical installations

To reduce the risks associated with tropical storms, companies should implement a risk management plan with the following recommendations:

- Perform regular inspections and preventive maintenance on all electrical infrastructure, including transformers, substations, switchboards, and wiring. This includes pruning trees near power lines to prevent falls and damage.
- Install voltage surge suppression devices at strategic points in the electrical network to divert voltage surges and protect sensitive equipment.
- Have robust backup power systems, such as Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) and electric generators, as they are essential for keeping critical equipment operational during power outages.
- Ensure that facilities have efficient drainage systems to prevent water accumulation in areas where electrical equipment is located.
- Establish clear protocols for the safe disconnection of electrical equipment and systems in the event of an impending tropical storm or flood, following the recommendations of agencies such as CENAPRED.
- Train staff in electrical safety measures during storms, including how to identify risks, how to act in an emergency, and how to use personal protective equipment.

Frequently asked questions about tropical storms and electrical power

How do tropical storms affect electrical power?

Tropical storms can affect electrical power through strong winds that knock down lines and poles, heavy rains that cause flooding, short circuits, and falling objects on infrastructure. These factors cause power outages, voltage fluctuations, and damage to electrical equipment, disrupting operational continuity and grid security.

Is it worth investing in UPS for storms?

Investing in Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems is highly recommended for industry as they provide a clean and stable power source during brief outages or voltage fluctuations. These systems provide immediate protection against power outages caused by electrical storms, preventing damage to sensitive equipment and allowing for the safe shutdown of critical systems.

Learn more about interactive UPS and online UPS: Which is best for your business in Mexico?