Flossie becomes a hurricane off Mexico’s Pacific coast after rapidly strengthening

Key Takeaways:

• Hurricane Flossie has been upgraded to a Category 1 storm with sustained winds of 130 kph (80 mph).
• Tropical storm warnings are issued from Punta San Telmo to Playa Perula on Mexico’s southwestern coast.
• Tropical storm watches are in effect from Zihuatanejo to Cabo Corrientes, signaling possible storm conditions within two days.
• Up to 150 mm (6 inches) of rainfall is expected in Guerrero, Michoacán, Colima, and Jalisco, raising concerns of life-threatening flooding and mudslides.
• Flossie is forecast to strengthen over the next 36 hours before weakening over cooler waters.

Flossie Becomes a Category 1 Hurricane

Hurricane Flossie has strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane off Mexico’s southwestern Pacific coast. The U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami announced that Flossie reached maximum sustained winds of 130 kph (80 mph) on Monday night. This rapid intensification has raised alarms along the Mexican coastline.

Current Position and Movement

At the time of the report, Flossie was positioned approximately 280 kilometers (175 miles) south of Manzanillo. The hurricane is moving west-northwest off the Mexican coast at a speed of 17 kph (10 mph). While Flossie’s center is forecasted to remain offshore, its close proximity means coastal areas could still feel significant effects.

Warnings and Watches Along the Coast

In response to Flossie’s advancement, Mexico’s government has issued a tropical storm warning along the southwestern coast from Punta San Telmo to Playa Perula. This warning indicates that tropical storm conditions are expected within the area. Furthermore, a tropical storm watch is in effect for regions from Zihuatanejo to Cabo Corrientes, meaning that these areas could experience tropical storm conditions within the next 48 hours.

Heavy Rainfall and Potential Hazards

Meteorologists warn that Flossie will bring substantial rainfall to parts of Mexico. Forecasts predict up to 150 mm (6 inches) of rain in the states of Guerrero, Michoacán, Colima, and Jalisco through Wednesday. This heavy precipitation heightens the risk of life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in regions with steep terrain.

Anticipated Strengthening Before Weakening

The hurricane is expected to strengthen over the next 36 hours as it continues its path along the coast. However, after this period, Flossie is forecasted to weaken upon encountering cooler waters. Residents in the affected areas are urged to remain vigilant and follow guidance from local authorities to ensure safety.

Stay Informed and Prepared

As Flossie continues to develop, it’s crucial for those in its potential path to stay updated on the latest weather reports. Government agencies and meteorological services will provide ongoing information about the hurricane’s trajectory and any additional precautions that should be taken.