Powerful Hurricane Polo is sending bands of heavy rain across Mexico’s Pacific coast, with the storm maintaining Category 5 strength as it skirts the shoreline. The U.S. National Hurricane Center warned that, while the eye remains offshore, the rain could cause life‑threatening flooding and landslides in the region.
In the state of Michoacán, restaurant owner Concepción López Villegas is reinforcing her seaside business in Lázro Cárdenas against the onslaught. “We’re worried and trying to protect our businesses,” she said, adding that the heritage built over decades could be destroyed.
Government response in Mexico
Mexico’s federal authorities have ordered evacuations in vulnerable areas and opened shelters for residents. Thousands of military personnel and Red Cross volunteers have been deployed to assist with preparations and to provide aid where needed.
Tropical Storm Nolo approaches Hawaii
Farther west, Tropical Storm Nolo is located about 295 miles south of South Point, Hawaii, and is expected to strengthen into a hurricane by Thursday night. A hurricane watch has been issued for Hawaii County.
Governor Josh Green announced that public schools and state and county offices on the Big Island will close Thursday and Friday, with Maui County following suit on Friday. Officials warn that the storm could bring up to 20 inches of rain, raising the risk of flash flooding and landslides.
John Bravender, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, emphasized the danger of prolonged rain on already saturated ground, noting that 20‑30 inches of rain could fall on the southeastern part of the island through Saturday.
Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda urged residents to prepare emergency kits, trim vegetation, and clear drains. The governor has activated more than 230 Hawaii National Guard members, and the state’s electric cooperative warned of possible prolonged power outages.
Additional tropical activity
The National Hurricane Center also reported that Tropical Storm Fay has re‑formed in the Atlantic, and Hurricane Odalys is tracking in the Pacific, though both are far from the United States.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
