Hurricane Polo makes landfall in Baja California, toppling trees and flooding coastal communities
The Category 2 hurricane struck early Tuesday near Las Barrancas, bringing maximum sustained winds of 110 mph. The U.S. National Hurricane Center reports Polo is crossing the Gulf of California and could bring heavy rain to parts of the U.S. Southwest later this week.
Hurricane Polo made landfall on Mexico's Pacific coast in Baja California Sur, bringing life-threatening winds and heavy rain that have already caused flooding in some coastal areas. The storm moved ashore just south of Las Barrancas, a village known for its surfing and fishing. Maximum sustained winds reached 110 mph (175 km/h) as it made landfall.
Polo is moving northeast and is expected to pass over Baja California Sur before moving inland over southern Sonora later on Tuesday. Mexican officials advised residents in threatened areas to seek shelter. A shopkeeper, María Palomino, spent the night at a high school turned into a temporary shelter, emphasizing the importance of seeking refuge.
A whale-watching and fishing guide reported the storm as coming with full force. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) stated that while Polo was expected to weaken over Baja California, it would still be at hurricane strength when it makes its second landfall in mainland Mexico. Meteorologists warned that Polo could bring between 6 and 12 inches (150-300mm) of rain, causing life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in areas with steep terrain.
The NHC also forecast a storm surge that could lead to significant coastal flooding and large destructive waves. Prior to landfall, power cuts were reported in Baja California Sur. Some flooding was already observed in Puerto San Carlos, and waves had crested sea barriers, prompting evacuations. Dangerous surf and rip currents are expected to continue along parts of Mexico's northwestern coast for at least a day.
The southern part of the peninsula, a popular tourist destination, had its beach access restricted on Monday due to the storm. Polo has been moving towards Mexico's coastline for days, fueled by warm ocean waters caused by the El Niño climate phenomenon, which has led to a more active hurricane season in the Pacific. As Polo moves northeast, it is expected to affect the US, bringing additional tropical moisture and rainfall, which could result in flash flooding in states like Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah.
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