Mexico: Tropical storm warnings in effect for southwest coast August 6-7

Event

A tropical storm warning was issued for the southwest coast of Mexico on Sunday, August 5, as Hurricane John and Tropical Storm Ileana both move parallel to shore. According to the United States National Hurricane Center (NHC), both storms are expected to remain offshore, though their effects will be felt in coastal areas. Strong winds, heavy rains, and dangerous surf and rip currents are expected from Guerrero to Jalisco states and southern Baja California Sur state beginning the evening (local time) of Monday, August 6. Tropical storm-force winds are likely for the coastal regions of Guerrero, Michoacán, Colima, Jalisco and Baja California Sur, with possible power outages, localized flooding, and mudslides. Cities included in the tropical storm warning include Zihuatenejo, Lázaro Cárdenas, and Manzanillo.

NHC reports released at 21:00 Monday evening show John moving northwest at 13 km/h (8 mph) with sustained winds around 120 km/h (75 mph) and tropical storm-force winds of 63 km/h (39 mph) extending 165 km (105 mi) from its center. John is expected to become a major hurricane of Category 3 or higher late Tuesday or early Wednesday, August 8. Tropical Storm Ileana is moving northwest at 30 km/h (18 mph) with sustained winds around 100 km/h (65 mph). Ileana is expected to weaken and be absorbed into Hurricane John by Tuesday evening.

Context

John formed as a tropical depression on Sunday, August 5, before quickly strengthening to a tropical storm later that night. The storm became a hurricane on August 6 with winds reaching 120 km/h (75 mph). Ileana formed as a tropical depression on Saturday, August 4, before strengthening to a tropical storm on Sunday. The eastern Pacific hurricane season lasts from May through November.

Advice

Individuals present or traveling to affected areas are advised to keep abreast of weather alerts, adhere to any advice issued by local authorities, and refrain from beach or ocean activities; hurricanes can produce dangerous waves and deadly rip currents even at large distances from the storm. In the event of flooding, remember that driving and 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.