Mexico: Tropical storm forming off southwest coast

Event

A large low-pressure system located off Mexico’s southwest coast is expected to form into a tropical cyclone within the next 48-hours, according to the US-based National Hurricane Center. The system was located several hundred kilometers south of the city of Manzanillo (Colima state) as of the morning of August 29 (local time) and moving in a north/northwesterly direction. The storm could potentially hit the coastal areas of Colima, Jalisco, Nayarit, and/or Baja California Sur in the coming days depending on its development. Heavy rain with the potential to result in floods are likely in the above areas regardless of the storm’s development.

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 in the above areas are advised to follow local weather forecasts, adhere to any advice issued by regional authorities (e.g. potential evacuation orders), and confirm travel reservations. 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.