01 Jul 2024 | 03:36 AM UTC
Mexico: Tropical Storm Chris tracking westward over the Gulf of Mexico as of late June 30
TS Chris tracking westward over the Gulf of Mexico late June 30. Landfall over central Veracruz State, Mexico, over the coming hours.
Tropical Storm Chris is tracking westward over the Gulf of Mexico late June 30. As of 22:00 CDT, the system's center of circulation was approximately 165 km (105 miles) southeast of Tuxpan, Mexico.
Forecast models indicate that the system will make landfall as a tropical storm over central Veracruz State, Mexico, early July 1 before weakening rapidly as it tracks westwards and dissipates over far northern Puebla State early July 1. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur over the coming days.
As of late June 30, authorities are maintaining the following watches and warnings:
Tropical Storm Warning: Cabo Rojo to Puerto Veracruz.
The system is forecast to produce rainfall totals of 10-20 cm (4-8 inches) across eastern Mexico through July 1. Maximum rainfall totals of around 30 cm (12 inches) are possible across the higher terrain of Guanajuato, Queretaro, and San Luis Potosi states. Flooding is likely, while landslides are possible in areas of higher terrain. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. If weather conditions prove hazardous, localized evacuations 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 may increase the incidence of 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.
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 path of the storm, 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.
