Yucatán Launches Community Weather Stations to Fight Climate Change

Río Lagartos, Yucatán — Thirteen communities across the Yucatán Peninsula have united to establish a network of community-operated weather stations, marking a groundbreaking effort to equip residents with scientific tools to anticipate climate change impacts and safeguard their livelihoods. The initiative was formally launched in Río Lagartos, where the first station of this citizen-driven network was inaugurated.

A Grassroots Approach to Climate Resilience

Guided by local expert Andrea Núñez, who oversees monitoring efforts, participants from across Yucatán and Campeche gathered for training sessions and knowledge-sharing on community-based science. Meteorologist Juan Palma Solís, alongside the UNDP’s Small Grants Programme and WWF Mexico, led technical workshops covering station maintenance, meteorological data processing, and the use of artificial intelligence to translate findings into actionable strategies for rural and coastal areas.

The network’s benefits are already tangible. In Sisal, restorer Abel Novelo highlighted its potential to track rainfall and droughts—critical for mangrove restoration. In Komchén, Campeche, beekeeper Everardo Chablé noted how wind and humidity data could prevent mass bee die-offs and improve traditional farming. Silvia Canul, a meliponiculturist from Tzucacab, emphasized the stations’ role in predicting flowering cycles to protect native bee colonies.

Beyond data collection, the project empowers communities to shape their own futures by democratizing science. Núñez added that ecotourism stands to gain, as weather insights will help plan activities and monitor climate impacts on local biodiversity.

Palma hailed the network as a model for global replication, stating, “We’re proving meteorology can be a citizen science—accessible, practical, and life-changing.” WWF and UNDP pledged long-term support to expand the network, underscoring a vision of resilience built on local knowledge and collective action.

With this initiative, Yucatán advances a future where science and tradition collaborate to confront climate challenges strategically and inclusively.