19 Jun 2017 | 09:49 AM UTC
Mexico: Torrential rain, possible cyclone in southeast
Torrential rain to hit Yucatan Peninsula and elsewhere in the southeast in coming hours and days due to storm system
Event
A low pressure system currently located off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is expected to form into a cyclone as it moves over the Gulf of Mexico sometime on Monday, June 19, or Tuesday, June 20. The system, regardless of whether or not it forms into a cyclone, is expected to bring torrential rain to southeastern Mexico as well as Belize, Guatemala, Jamaica, and western Cuba in the coming hours and days.
As such, flooding is possible in coastal, low-lying, and river adjacent areas, along with landslides in hilly areas. Associated transportation disruptions are possible.
Context
Cyclonic storms are common in the Caribbean region during the Atlantic Hurricane Season, which runs from June 1 to November 30.
Advice
Individuals in the above areas are advised to follow local weather forecasts and to adhere to any advice issued by the regional authorities (e.g. potential evacuation orders). In the event of flooding, keep in mind that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products.