MEXICO CITY, September 28: Hurricane Polo is approaching Mexico’s Pacific coast, bringing the threat of destructive winds, heavy rainfall, flash flooding and dangerous coastal conditions as authorities step up emergency preparations ahead of expected landfall.
The storm remains powerful enough to cause significant damage across parts of Baja California Sur, with residents in vulnerable areas being advised to complete preparations and follow official evacuation instructions.
Category 3 Hurricane Approaches Baja California Sur
Hurricane Polo is moving toward Baja California Sur with maximum sustained winds of around 115 mph (185 km/h).
Although the storm has weakened from its earlier peak intensity, it continues to pose a serious threat to communities along Mexico’s Pacific coastline.
Strong winds could damage buildings, uproot trees, bring down power lines and cause widespread electricity outages.
Authorities Warn of Dangerous Conditions
Emergency authorities have urged residents to secure homes and businesses before weather conditions deteriorate.
Businesses in several coastal communities have boarded up windows and doors, while residents have been advised to keep emergency supplies ready and prepare for possible power outages.
People living in low-lying and coastal areas have also been asked to follow evacuation instructions where necessary.
Heavy Rain Could Trigger Flash Floods
Hurricane Polo is expected to bring extremely heavy rainfall across parts of Baja California Sur.
Some areas could receive around 6 to 12 inches of rain, increasing the risk of flash floods and landslides.
Mountainous and steep areas are considered particularly vulnerable because prolonged rainfall can quickly destabilise slopes and block roads.
Dangerous Waves Hit Coastal Areas
The hurricane has generated large waves and dangerous surf conditions along parts of Mexico’s Pacific coast.
Strong rip currents and storm-driven waves could cause coastal flooding and create hazardous conditions near beaches.
Residents and tourists have been advised to stay away from the coastline during the storm.
Evacuations and Closures Underway
Authorities have begun precautionary measures in areas expected to be affected by the hurricane.
Evacuations have been carried out in vulnerable communities, while some ports have been closed and classes suspended.
Access to beaches has also been restricted in several areas as officials prepare for worsening weather conditions.
Thousands of Emergency Personnel Deployed
Mexico has mobilised thousands of emergency and security personnel in preparation for Hurricane Polo.
Around 7,000 personnel from the Navy and Defence Ministry have been deployed to Baja California Sur.
Authorities have also prepared more than 160 temporary shelters for residents who may need to leave their homes.
Emergency teams are preparing for rescue operations, road closures, flooding and possible damage to infrastructure.
Storm Has Already Caused Casualties
Severe weather associated with Polo has already resulted in casualties along Mexico’s Pacific coast.
Two children were killed after their home was swept away in Jalisco state, while their parents were reported missing.
Another person was swept away by powerful currents near Puerto Vallarta as dangerous coastal conditions intensified.
Tourist Destinations Monitoring Hurricane
Baja California Sur includes several major tourist destinations, including Los Cabos and Cabo San Lucas.
Hotels, businesses and local authorities are closely monitoring the hurricane’s path as heavy rain and strong winds threaten the region.
Even areas outside the direct path of the storm could experience flooding, dangerous waves and power disruptions.
Polo Could Reach Mainland Mexico
After crossing Baja California Sur, Hurricane Polo is expected to weaken while moving over land.
However, the system could later cross the Gulf of California and approach mainland Mexico.
Parts of Sonora may also experience heavy rainfall, strong winds and flooding as the storm continues moving inland.
Hurricane Previously Reached Category 5 Strength
Polo intensified rapidly earlier in its development and briefly reached Category 5 strength, the highest level on the hurricane intensity scale.
Maximum sustained winds reached around 180 mph (285 km/h) at its strongest point.
Although the hurricane has since weakened, authorities continue to warn that it remains capable of causing serious damage.
Residents Urged to Follow Emergency Instructions
Residents in affected areas have been advised to stay indoors during the strongest part of the storm and avoid flooded roads, rivers and coastal zones.
Authorities have also urged people to keep essential supplies, drinking water, medicines and emergency lighting available.
The immediate focus remains on protecting communities from hurricane-force winds, flash flooding, landslides and destructive coastal waves as Polo approaches land.
Source – Reuters / US National Hurricane Center / Mexican Authorities
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