Hurricane Polo, now downgraded to a Category 3 storm, is set to hit the Pacific coast of Baja California Sur on Monday evening with sustained winds ranging from 100 to 130 kilometers per hour and heavy rainfall, according to meteorologists. The hurricane, positioned approximately 320 kilometers off the Baja California coast as of Sunday night, is moving in a north-northwest direction at a speed of 19 km/h, carrying sustained winds of 200 km/h, as reported by the U.S. National Hurricane Center.
In a separate event, Hurricane Nolo posed a threat to certain regions of Hawaii with heavy rainfall, despite moving away from the state’s islands. AccuWeather, a private weather forecasting service, predicted that Hurricane Polo is likely to lose strength before making landfall as a Category 1 hurricane. However, it still poses a risk of toppling trees, power lines, and causing structural damage.
In Mexico, heavy rain, high waves, and strong winds have led to evacuations, port closures, and school shutdowns along the Pacific coast. Tragically, two children lost their lives while their parents are missing after their home was swept away in Jalisco state. Authorities in San José del Cabo have restricted beach access due to large waves and hazardous surf conditions caused by the approaching storm.
Hurricane Polo is expected to bring 10 to 20 centimeters of rainfall across Baja California, with localized amounts of up to 30 centimeters in Baja California Sur, posing a severe risk of flooding and mudslides. The storm is projected to move across the Gulf of California towards the northern states of Sonora and Chihuahua, increasing the potential for life-threatening weather conditions.
The U.S. National Hurricane Center has cautioned that the heavy rainfall may result in dangerous flooding and mudslides, particularly in mountainous regions. To address the impending crisis, Mexico’s Navy and Defence ministries have mobilized approximately 7,000 personnel in Baja California Sur and have set up 169 facilities for temporary shelter.
Meanwhile, in Hawaii, there is a continued threat of flooding and mudslides from Hurricane Nolo’s outer bands, with the Big Island expected to receive up to 50 centimeters of rain. Over 120 National Guard members have been activated, with a total of around 400 deployed statewide following an emergency proclamation by the governor. President Donald Trump has also approved an emergency declaration, enabling FEMA to coordinate assistance and financial support.
The residents of Hawaii are still grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Lala, which caused significant damage with heavy rain and strong winds, resulting in the displacement of around 100 homes on the Big Island.
