La Marquesa turns white after heavy hail, covering both sides of highway

La Marquesa turned white after a severe hailstorm struck the area on Tuesday afternoon, covering much of the highway in both directions and catching motorists and merchants by surprise.

The heaviest accumulation occurred near the landmark wings in Ocoyoacac. Hail and rain reduced visibility, forcing drivers to slow down. Some vehicles became stranded as the ice built up, while others pulled over and waited for the rain to ease.

Civil Protection authorities urged motorists to keep a safe distance, avoid sudden maneuvers and follow instructions. They warned that the roads remained covered in hail and could become especially slippery as the ice melted.

The storm also prompted an operation in the community of Salazar involving the Lerma Water and Sanitation organization, public works officials and public security personnel. Crews began cleaning homes and avenues, clearing blocked areas, removing material and inspecting roads to protect mobility and residents’ safety.

In some homes, Civil Protection personnel had to intervene because the amount of hail prevented families from getting out. Authorities told residents and drivers to contact municipal Civil Protection or public security services if they needed emergency assistance or wanted to report damage to public roads or homes.