Why This Matters: Hurricane Polo is approaching Mexico’s northern Pacific coast, where officials have restricted beach access, closed schools and opened temporary shelters ahead of the storm’s expected arrival.
What is happening
Polo is a Category 3 hurricane with maximum sustained winds near 115 mph (185 km/h), according to the report. The storm is forecast to make landfall late Monday or early Tuesday and move over Baja California Sur, a region that includes the resort destination of Los Cabos.
The US-based National Hurricane Center has warned that heavy rainfall could trigger life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in areas with steep terrain. It also warned that storm surge could be accompanied by large and destructive waves.
Preparations in Baja California Sur
- Residents stocked up on essentials including drinking water and food.
- Authorities restricted access to beaches in Cabo San Lucas.
- Some restaurants in Cabo San Lucas closed.
- Schools across Baja California Sur were ordered to remain closed on Monday.
- Temporary shelters were opened for residents who might need to evacuate.
- Federal authorities deployed thousands of navy and army personnel, along with specialised machinery.
Why the storm may be strengthening
Meteorologists said Polo was being fuelled by extremely warm waters caused by the El Niño climate phenomenon. The report does not provide further detail about the storm’s expected rainfall totals, the precise landfall location or how long hazardous conditions will continue.
Who may be affected
People living along the northern Pacific coast of Mexico could face strong winds, heavy rain, flooding, mudslides, storm surge and destructive waves. The storm is also approaching a region popular with tourists and known for activities including sport fishing and whale watching.
Authorities in Cabo San Lucas, a town known for its natural rock arch, have already taken steps to limit exposure to dangerous coastal conditions. The regional government’s shelter arrangements are intended for residents who may need evacuation.
What happens next
Polo is moving slowly toward Mexico’s coastline. The immediate outlook described in the report is centred on the forecast landfall late Monday or early Tuesday, with officials continuing preparations for possible flooding, mudslides and coastal impacts.
Bottom Line
Hurricane Polo is forecast to reach Baja California Sur as a powerful Category 3 storm. Officials are preparing for heavy rainfall, dangerous waves, storm surge and possible life-threatening flooding and mudslides.
Source
This report is based on information published by BBC Science & Environment.
