Mexico: Tropical Storm Gamma expected to bring further heavy rainfall to southeastern regions after making landfall October 3 /update 1

Event

Tropical Storm Gamma made landfall near Tulum (Quintana Roo state) at around midday (local time) on Saturday, October 3. Even though the storm system is forecast to weaken slightly having come inland, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) tropical storm conditions will continue along the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula through Saturday night and into Sunday, October 4. A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect from north and west of Punta Allen (Quintana Roo state) to Dzilam (Yucatan state), including Cozumel (Quintana Roo state), and a Tropical Storm Watch is in effect west of Dzilam to Progreso (Yucatan state). As much as 380 mm (15 in) of rainfall is expected across northeastern parts of Yucatan and Quintana Roo states, whilst less heavy but still significant rain is expected across other southeastern areas, including Campeche, Tabasco, northern Chiapas, and southeast Veracruz states. Long-range predictions forecast that Gamma will slowly move across the Bay of Campeche over the next four or five days, bringing further rainfall to southeastern areas until at least Wednesday, October 7.

Flooding, landslides, and associated disruptions to transport, utilities, and businesses are expected across southeastern areas in the coming days.

Context

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from late May through to the end of November, with activity typically peaking in late August and early September. Numerous tropical storms form in the Atlantic Ocean during this period, with most affecting the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the east coast of the United States. Although communities in the region are generally well prepared for adverse weather conditions during the hurricane season, severe storms bring a significant risk of flooding and infrastructural damage.

Advice

Individuals in areas forecast to be affected by the storm system are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm flight reservations, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous. Never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.