Southwestern Mexico was preparing for heavy rainfall and potential mudslides as Hurricane Polo intensified into a major cyclone in the Pacific. Another storm, Tropical Storm Nolo, was also on the radar, posing a threat of severe flooding in Hawaii later in the week.
Hurricane Polo, described as “extremely dangerous,” was forecasted to impact Mexico’s Guerrero state with significant rainfall of 10 to 15 centimeters along the coast. Guerrero has been frequently hit by hurricanes in recent times.
Moving towards Hawaii, Tropical Storm Nolo was situated approximately 491 kilometers south of South Point. The storm was anticipated to approach the Big Island by Friday, potentially bringing up to 51 centimeters of rain, which could lead to flooding and mudslides.
Residents in the affected areas were taking precautions, with Concepción López Villegas fortifying her seaside restaurant in Lázaro Cárdenas, Michoacán, to withstand the incoming rain. Guerrero state faced a heightened risk of dangerous flooding and mudslides, as per the hurricane center’s warnings.
While Hurricane Polo swirled south-southwest of Zihuatanejo, Mexico, it was not expected to make landfall, according to meteorologists and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. The region at greatest risk was rural and mountainous, with concerns over the impact on small towns and ports.
Preventative measures were being implemented, with evacuations underway in some areas and shelters set up for affected individuals. The deployment of military and Red Cross personnel aimed to provide support and aid during the storm.
In Hawaii, Tropical Storm Nolo was anticipated to strengthen before reaching the Big Island, potentially becoming a major hurricane. Flash flooding was a significant concern, with forecasts suggesting rainfall of 50 to 76 centimeters in parts of the Big Island, already recovering from the impacts of Hurricane Lala in August.
Authorities emphasized the importance of readiness and urged residents to prepare for possible power outages and infrastructure challenges. Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda and local utilities advised residents to assemble emergency kits, secure their properties, and stock up on essentials ahead of the storm’s arrival.