Mexico/US: Tropical Storm Sergio to make landfall in Baja October 12 /update 1

Event

Hurricane Sergio has weakened into a tropical storm and was located approximately 1500 km (930 mi) west-southwest of the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula as of 08:00 (local time) on Wednesday, October 10. According to the latest forecasts by the US-based National Hurricane Center, Sergio is expected to make landfall in Baja California Sur state early on Friday, October 12. The storm is forecast to then pass over the northwestern states of Sonora and Chihuahua on October 12 and into the US state of Texas and potentially New Mexico early on October 13 as a tropical depression.

Tropical storm watches are currently in effect for the Baja coastline between Bahia San Juan Bautista and San Evaristo on the west coast and between Punta Eugenia and Cabo San Lazaro on the east coast. Up to 25 cm (10 in) of rain is forecast for parts of Baja and Sonora, which has the potential to result in flooding and landslides. Up to 15 cm (6 in) is forecast for affected US regions. Strong winds are also to be anticipated, along with associated transportation disruptions and power outages.

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 affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports and adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities. Remember that walking or driving through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.