Mexico: Torrential rains to hit the south

Event

According to the US-based National Hurricane Center, a low pressure system located off the Pacific coast of southern Mexico is expected to form into a tropical depression (the precursor to tropical storms and hurricanes) by the end of the day on Wednesday, May 31. As of 05:00 (local time) on May 31, the system was located approximately 480 km (300 mi) south-southeast of Acapulco (Guerrero state) and is moving in a northerly direction towards the Mexican coast. Heavy rain - with the potential to provoke flash flooding and landslides - is forecast in the south and southeast of the country in the coming hours and days.

Context

Mexico's Pacific hurricane season extends from May 15 to November 30 (and in the Atlantic from June 1 to November 30), with the largest concentration of storms typically occurring between August and October.

Advice

Individuals present in affected states are advised to keep abreast of weather forecasts and to adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities. 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.