Hurricane Polo, now downgraded to a Category 3 storm, is anticipated to reach the Pacific coast of Baja California Sur on Monday night, packing sustained winds of 100 to 130 kilometers per hour and heavy rainfall in the popular tourist spot. The U.S. National Hurricane Center reports that as of Sunday evening, the hurricane was approximately 320 kilometers away from the Baja California coast, moving north-northwest at a speed of 19 km/h with winds blowing at 200 km/h.
In the meantime, Hurricane Nolo poses a threat to certain areas of Hawaii with heavy rains, despite moving farther away from the state’s islands. AccuWeather predicts that Polo will weaken gradually before reaching land as a Category 1 hurricane, potentially causing tree and power line damage along with structural impacts.
Mexico’s Pacific coast is already experiencing heavy rain, high waves, and strong winds, leading to evacuations, port closures, and school shutdowns. Tragically, two minors lost their lives and their parents are missing after their home was washed away in Jalisco, on Mexico’s Pacific coast.
Authorities in San José del Cabo have limited beach access due to large waves and dangerous surf caused by the approaching storm. The forecast predicts Polo will bring 10 to 20 centimeters of rainfall across Baja California, with localized amounts of up to 30 centimeters in Baja California Sur, increasing the risk of dangerous flooding and landslides before moving into the northern states of Sonora and Chihuahua.
The U.S. National Hurricane Center warns that the rainfall may lead to life-threatening flooding and mudslides in regions with steep terrain. Mexico’s Navy and Defence ministries have mobilized approximately 7,000 personnel to Baja California Sur and established 169 facilities as temporary shelters.
Hawaii also faces the risk of flooding and mudslides from Hurricane Nolo’s outer bands, with the Big Island potentially receiving up to 50 centimeters of rainfall. Over 120 National Guard members have been activated, with 400 personnel deployed statewide following the governor’s emergency proclamation. President Donald Trump has approved an emergency declaration, allowing FEMA to coordinate assistance and financial support.
Hawaii is still in the process of recovering from the impact of Hurricane Lala, which caused significant damage on the Big Island with heavy rains and strong winds that displaced around 100 homes from their foundations.
