Living here

4 benefits of the heat in Mérida: put on a brave face?

Does the heat in Mérida wear you down? Yucatán's average temperature often climbs above 37ºC. But what does Mérida's climate do for the body? We explain.

benefits of the heat - vidaenyucatan.com
benefits of the heat - vidaenyucatan.com · Photo: Vida en Yucatán

Does the heat in Mérida wear you down? The average summer temperature in Yucatán’s capital often climbs above 37ºC. But what is Mérida’s climate like?

Mérida has a warm, humid climate all year round. Average temperatures vary very little with the rainy season, which runs from June to October. During December and April the weather is mostly dry. July and August, by contrast, are the hottest and most humid time of year.

On the other hand, from late September to May humidity is lower and nights are cooler. From June to September the heat intensifies and even the evenings are warm. Average monthly rainfall can be higher in summer because of tropical storms.

Although Mérida’s climate can be a drawback for some, there are many reasons why moving to Mérida is a much better idea — climate and temperature can have a big impact on health.

Heat in Mérida: 4 advantages for your body and mind

heatstroke in Mérida - vidaenyucatan.com
heatstroke in Mérida - vidaenyucatan.com

“Today, the overflowing sun made the landscape shudder.” Albert Camus

1. More vitamin D

Exposure to sunlight raises the body’s vitamin D levels. Vitamin D can help prevent cancer, provide higher energy levels and keep bones strong and healthy.

And even though vitamin D is so important for health, researchers say 77% of people are deficient in it because they don’t get enough sunlight.

If you spend most of the year indoors because of low temperatures, rain and snow, maybe it’s time to move to Mérida so you can make better use of the sun’s benefits. Just remember to get a moderate amount, because too much sunlight can also be harmful.

2. Much more energy

Even though Mérida’s climate can be a bit stifling, that’s no barrier to exercise. In fact, people are more active in summer. So in a region with a warm climate all year, exercise and physical activity become part of daily life.

In warm-climate areas it’s also common to spend more time outdoors. Yucatán’s capital has many parks and squares and is very close to archaeological sites, paradisiacal beaches and nature reserves.

3. It improves your memory and it’s safer

Various studies show that when body temperature is high, overall alertness and mental performance improve. Living in Mérida means coexisting with temperatures above 30ºC, so the body meets high temperatures for most of the year.

On top of that, a warm climate is safer. Scientific research has shown mortality rates are higher in cold climates than in warm ones. In Mérida, cold is almost non-existent — a real guarantee for keeping healthy.

4. It’s better for your lungs and heart

A cold climate can have a negative impact on health, especially the heart and respiratory system. When the body works to regulate heat, blood pressure can rise to unhealthy levels, causing long-term damage.

The heat in Mérida is definitely synonymous with benefits, and it’s not just about getting a healthy tan. Heat and sunlight can offer real advantages — from better heart and lung health to greater mental performance. So living in Mérida, in a warm climate, is a genuine investment in your health.

Read: 7 things to know if you want to buy a house in a warm climate.

The best of Yucatán, in your inbox

Get guides, recommendations and news every week.