Mexico: Tropical Storm Nate nears Yucatán Peninsula

Event

Tropical Storm Nate has passed over northeastern Nicaragua and Honduras and is located - as of 04:00 (local time) on Friday, October 6 - approximately 125 km (75 mi) north of the Honduran department of Colón. According to current predictions by the US-based National Hurricane Center, the storm is expected to track west-northwest and make landfall for a second time in the Yucatán Peninsula on Friday evening.

Tropical storm warnings are in place for the Mexican coastline between Punta Herrero (Quintana Roo state) and Río Lagartos (Yucatán state), a zone which includes Cancún and other resort areas. A hurricane watch - indicating hurricane conditions are possible - is also in effect for this same area, although the storm is currently not expected to strengthen into a hurricane before hitting Mexico. Up to 30 cm (12 in) of rain is forecast for affected areas, along with storm surges and violent winds. Subsequent flooding, landslides, travel disruptions, power outages, and telecommunication problems are likely.

Context

The storm has dropped massive amounts of rain - up to 76 cm (30 in) in some areas - over parts of Central America, leading to deadly floods and landslides. Significant damage and dozens of deaths and disappearances have been reported.

Mexico’s Atlantic Hurricane Season officially runs from June 1 to November 30 (and its Pacific Hurricane Season from May 15 to November 30), with a peak of storms typically observed in late August and September.

Advice

Individuals in the above areas are advised to follow local weather forecasts and adhere to any advice issued by regional 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.