Overview

The Servicio Meteorológico Nacional (SMN) is the national meteorological agency of Mexico. It gathers meteorological and hydrological information, issues routine forecasts, and publishes alerts and advisories to protect lives, property and economic activity. The SMN serves the general public, government bodies, and specialised sectors such as aviation and marine operations.

Data, tools and products

The agency operates a network of surface stations, radar sites and automated sensors and makes use of satellite observations and numerical weather prediction models. Typical products include short‑ and medium‑range forecasts, severe weather warnings, hurricane tracking bulletins, and climatological datasets. Public products are published in Spanish and are adapted for regional needs.

History and organization

The modern SMN developed from earlier national and regional observation efforts and was formalised as a government meteorological service in the 20th century. It works in coordination with other government agencies, civil protection authorities and international organisations, and participates in the global meteorological community to exchange data and forecasts.

Functions and applications

  • Weather forecasting and nowcasting for cities and regions.
  • Warnings for hurricanes, convective storms, floods, heat waves and cold snaps.
  • Services for aviation, maritime navigation and agriculture.
  • Maintenance of climate records and support for research and seasonal outlooks.

Importance and access

SMN forecasts and warnings are a core component of Mexico's disaster risk reduction and public safety systems. The agency's information helps emergency managers, farmers, transport operators and the public prepare for hazardous weather. Users can access official bulletins, forecasts and educational material through the agency's communication channels and media partners, and the SMN contributes to regional meteorological cooperation and training.

For more technical resources and real‑time products consult national portals and international meteorological services that share observations and models used by the SMN. General information about meteorology and forecasting methods is available from public educational resources and specialist references on weather.