Central America: Cyclone forming off Pacific coast June 8-10

Event

According to the National Hurricane Center, a low pressure system located off Central America’s Pacific coast has an 80 percent chance of forming into a tropical depression within the next 48 hours (from 05:00 - local time - June 8). As of 05:00, the system was located a few hundred miles south of the Gulf of Tehuantepec. The system is expected to strengthen into a tropical depression or tropical storm over the weekend of June 9-10, moving towards the west or west-northwest. While direct landfall is not currently forecast, the system could bring heavy rain and stormy conditions to southwestern Mexico, Guatemala, and El Salvador in the coming hours and days. Associated flooding and mudslides are possible.

Context

The Pacific Hurricane Season extends from May 15 to November 30 (and the Atlantic Hurricane Season 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 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.