Hurricane Polo, now downgraded to a Category 3 storm, is anticipated to hit the Pacific coastline of Baja California Sur on Monday evening, with sustained winds of 100 to 130 kilometers per hour and intense rainfall expected in the well-liked tourist spot. At the moment, the hurricane is approximately 320 kilometers away from the Baja California coast, moving in a north-northwest direction at a speed of 19 km/h, with sustained winds of 200 km/h, as per the U.S. National Hurricane Center. Meanwhile, Hurricane Nolo poses a threat to parts of Hawaii with heavy rain, though the storm is gradually moving away from the state’s islands.
Private weather service AccuWeather has projected that Polo will weaken gradually before making landfall as a Category 1 hurricane, potentially causing damage to trees, power lines, and structures. The Pacific coast of Mexico has already experienced heavy rain, high waves, and strong winds, leading to evacuations, port closures, and school shutdowns. Tragically, two children lost their lives and their parents are missing after their residence was swept away in Jalisco state on Mexico’s Pacific coast, as reported by the state Civil Protection and Fire Department.
In San José del Cabo, a prominent resort city, beach access has been restricted due to the storm generating large waves and hazardous surf conditions. The forecast for Polo includes rainfall of 10 to 20 centimeters across Baja California, with localized amounts of up to 30 centimeters in Baja California Sur, heightening the risk of severe flooding and landslides. The U.S. National Hurricane Center has warned of potential life-threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in mountainous regions.
Mexican Navy and Defence departments have mobilized approximately 7,000 personnel to Baja California Sur and set up 169 facilities to serve as temporary shelters. In Hawaii, there is still a risk of floods and mudslides from Hurricane Nolo’s outer bands, with the Big Island expected to receive up to 50 centimeters of rain. More than 120 National Guard members have been activated, out of a total of around 400 statewide following the governor’s emergency declaration. President Donald Trump has approved an emergency declaration, allowing FEMA to coordinate aid and financial support. The residents of Hawaii are still grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Lala, which caused significant damage on the Big Island, including the displacement of around 100 homes due to heavy rain and strong winds.