24 Oct 2022 | 01:13 AM UTC
Mexico: Tropical Depression Roslyn tracking northeastward over Coahuila State, Mexico as of late Oct. 23 /update 5
TD Roslyn tracking northeast over Coahuila State, Mexico, late Oct. 23. Fatalities reported.
Event
Tropical Depression Roslyn is tracking northeastward over southern Coahuila State, Mexico late Oct. 23. As of 19:00 MDT, the system's center of circulation was approximately 95 km (60 miles) east-southeast of Torreon, Coahuila State. Forecast models indicate that the storm will continue tracking northeastwards before dissipating over eastern Coahuila State early Oct. 24. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur over the coming hours.
As of the evening of Oct. 23, authorities have rescinded all coastal watches and warnings in relation to the storm. Forecast models indicate additional rainfall of 2.5-7.5 cm (1-3 inches) in southern Durango, Sinaloa, Nayarit, Zacatecas, and Jalisco states. The heavy rainfall could lead to flash flooding and landslides in areas of rugged terrain. Swells generated by Roslyn are likely to continue affecting portions of the coast of southwestern and west-central Mexico, as well as the southern parts of the Baja California peninsula through Oct. 23. These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.
Authorities in Nayarit State have confirmed one fatality in the town of Mexcaltitan de Santiago Ixcuintla and another fatality in Rosamorada District due to falling debris. Flash floods and power outages affected the town of Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco State. Authorities have opened emergency shelters across Jalisco and Nayarit states, including Puerto Vallarta and La Huerta. Authorities in Jalisco evacuated at least 303 people from La Huerta. All school activities are suspended through Oct. 23 and authorities have urged residents to avoid tourist activities at beaches and in mountainous areas through Oct. 23. Some flights at Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) in Puerto Vallarta were disrupted Oct. 23; as of the evening of Oct. 23, the airport is operating normally.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. If weather conditions prove hazardous, localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible.
The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions and render some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters poses a serious health threat.
Advice
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast tropical storm conditions. Heed any evacuation orders that may be issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for severe flooding and storm surge. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.
Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the storm's path, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.
