The Gulf of Tehuantepec, located on the southern coast of Mexico, is pronounced as 'te-wan-te-pek'. The word consists of four syllables and is spelled as /tɛˌwɑntəˈpɛk/ in the IPA phonetic transcription. The spelling of the word may appear complex initially, but it is quite easy to pronounce once you break it down into individual phonetic sounds. The Gulf of Tehuantepec is an important region known for its strong winds and currents, which can have a significant impact on marine transportation and weather conditions in the surrounding regions.
The Gulf of Tehuantepec is a body of water located in the southeastern part of Mexico, along the Pacific Ocean. Spanning approximately 220 miles (354 kilometers) in length and extending up to 150 miles (240 kilometers) in width, the Gulf of Tehuantepec is one of the largest gulfs in the region. It is situated between the states of Oaxaca and Chiapas, forming a vital natural barrier between Central and North America.
Known for its strong winds and unpredictable weather patterns, the Gulf of Tehuantepec is notorious for its high-velocity winds known as the Tehuantepecers or Tehuano winds. These winds, which can reach speeds of over 100 miles per hour (160 kilometers per hour), tend to occur from late autumn to early spring. They often create challenging conditions for maritime operations, especially for small vessels.
Boasting rich marine biodiversity and serving as a significant ecological hotspot, the Gulf of Tehuantepec is home to numerous species of fish, crustaceans, and marine mammals. It supports an essential ecosystem, sustaining local communities through fishing and other marine-related activities.
Additionally, the Gulf of Tehuantepec plays a significant role in international trade, serving as a key transit route for ships between ports in the Americas and the Pacific. With its strategic location and abundant marine resources, its economic importance extends beyond the local region.