Mexico: Tropical Storm Bud approaching Baja California /update 3

Event

Tropical Storm Bud, which has been downgraded from hurricane status, was located approximately 175 km (110 mi) south of Cabo San Lucas (Baja California Sur state) and 430 km (270 mi) west of Nayarit as of 03:00 (local time) on Thursday, June 14. According to the US-based National Hurricane Center, the storm is expected to continue moving in a northerly direction, making landfall at the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula on Thursday afternoon or evening. Bud is forecast to weaken further into a tropical depression before making landfall for a second time in the northwestern state of Sonora on Friday.

A tropical storm warning is currently in effect for the Baja California coastline between Santa Fe and La Paz, an area which includes the resort towns of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. Heavy rain and strong winds are also expected elsewhere in northwestern Mexico, notably in coastal areas. Associated flooding and mudslides are possible. Flight delays and cancelations are likely at Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) June 14-15, along with other transportation disruptions in the area.

Furthermore, a low pressure system with a 60 percent chance of forming into a cyclone within the coming 48 hours is currently located off southwestern Mexico. The Mexican weather service is forecasting heavy rain for various southern states, including Chiapas, Tabasco, Veracruz, Oaxaca, and Puebla, for June 14-15.

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.