Mexico: Tropical Storm Fernand forms in the Gulf of Mexico September 3

Event

The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported that a tropical depression in the Gulf of Mexico has strengthened into Tropical Storm Ferdnand as of 13:00 (local time) on Tuesday, September 3. The government of Mexico has issued a Tropical Storm Warning for the northeast coast of Mexico from La Pesca to Barra del Tordo and from Barra El Mezquital to the mouth of the Rio Grande River. Tropical storm conditions are expected to first reach the coast as early as Tuesday evening into early Wednesday, September 4.

As of 13:00 on Tuesday, Fernand is located at approximately 23.5°N 95.3°W (map here) and is tracking west at 11 kph (7 mph). The storm has maximum sustained winds of 65 kph (40 mph) and is forecast to strengthen before moving inland. Fernand is expected to produce rainfall totals of 15-30 cm (6-12 in) in some areas through Friday, September 6.

Associated flooding, power outages, and disruptions to transportation and business services are expected to continue in the coming hours and days.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas 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 - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult - and never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.