As Eye See It: And The Rains Came, Adiós Hot And Dusty

By Bill Wilson

"A mala lluvia, buen paraguas” (for a heavy rain bring a good umbrella) - Weather dicho

June was a great opening act for our rainy season and a rain jacket and umbrella should be a good friend even during a bright, sunny day. So far in June (as of press time) we have had 4.12 inches (104.64 mm) to 2.65 inches (67.31mm) depending on location.

The rainy season in the mountains of Central Mexico requires some special considerations as sudden and dangerous flooding in centro and campo can occur in a flash. Don’t drive though moving water. Drive defensively during downpours

Weather Data: Let’s look at the weather records for June since 2020, from my two weather stations at LaLejona II:

June 2024: 8 in. (203.2 mm)

June 2023: 0.61 in. (15.49 mm)

June 2022: 2.29 in. (58.16 mm)

May 2021: 5.08 in. (129.03 mm

May 2020: 4.72 in. (119.88 mm)

The data was collected via my two weather station and apps via Ambinet.Net (available in iOS and Android) and WeatherUnderground (also available on the two popular platforms). The station ID is ISANMI1 and streams to various internet sites. Another reliable station in San Miguel is Rodrigo Garibay’s station just outside of town on road to Querétaro. As many readers know I generally post a weather report on my Facebook page as well as Insiders’ News and Weather in San Miguel on Facebook.

Even though we are in our rainy season it’s always good to conserve water. One organization that has been at the forefront of water use and conservation is Caminos de Agua.

Dylan Terrell, founder, and executive director of the organization, reported for the previous year (2024) the group has accomplished these projects:

• Built 466 rainwater harvesting systems—far more than ever before

• Inaugurated our largest Groundwater Treatment System to date, now providing clean water access to 270 families in Alonso Yáñez

• Launched a groundbreaking public health study on fluoride exposure in kids with the National Public Health Institute of Mexico and Columbia University 

• And kicked off the Water School to train rural youth as future leaders. 

Explaining the annual report Terrell says, "If you’re moved by what we’ve achieved together, I hope you’ll consider making a gift to help keep this momentum going. In these times of global uncertainty, your support matters more than ever. It helps us stay focused on what matters most—bringing clean, safe water to the communities who need it most. Even a small monthly gift makes a big difference."

Fun Facts

The Mixtecs excelled in fine gold jewelry and sculptures

Their intricate gold artifacts show a high level of sophistication, making this one of the most interesting ancient civilizations in Mexico. You can see many of these artifacts at the Museo de Arte Prehispánico de México Rufino Tamayo in Oaxaca.

Chichen Itza’s El Castillo is architecturally aligned with astronomical events

The pyramid is designed to cast the shadow of a serpent during the equinoxes, attracting thousands of visitors annually and highlighting the Maya’s integration of astronomical knowledge into their architecture.

Poinsettia plantscome from México

The poinsettia, known locally as “Nochebuena,” is native to Mexico. This flower is a popular decoration during Christmas thanks to its beautiful red and green colors.

México is the world’slargest exporter of beer

Mexico exports almost $6 billion worth of beer, making it the world’s largest exporter. In fact, Mexico’s beer exports represent over one-third of the worldwide beer exports, making it a dream for beer lovers. México has the world’s largest crystal caves

The Naica Mine — aptly nicknamed The Cave of the Crystals — is the largest crystal cave in the world. The largest crystals there measure 36 feet (11 meters) and can be found at a depth of 300 meters in the state of Chihuahua.

Tip of the Hat

A big tip goes to the tránsitos, police, Protection Civil and clean-up crews for the herculean task of watching over the annual Locos parade.

Kudos go to the volunteers of Caminos de Agua who do a great job in preserving our precious water resources.

And a continued raspberry to locals and visitors who drive too fast for the conditions on our highways.

Hasta el próximo mes!

Bill Wilson, 20-year San Miguel resident has a journalism career spanning 50 years covering everything the UN to Cub Scout news. He’s also a weather buff and has been a first responder.