Mexico's Pacific coast braces for Hurricane Polo
The category-four storm is approaching the state of Baja California Sur, on Mexico's northern Pacific coast.
Mexico’s Pacific coast prepares for Hurricane Polo
Lifeguards put up red flags on beaches in Baja California Sur to warn holidaymakers about dangerous sea conditions.
People along Mexico’s northern Pacific coast are getting ready for Hurricane Polo, which is expected to come ashore later on Monday or early on Tuesday.
The Category 3 storm, with maximum sustained winds near 115 mph (185 km/h), is forecast to pass over Baja California Sur, a tourist-heavy state that includes the resort area of Los Cabos.
Meteorologists at the US-based National Hurricane Center (NHC) have cautioned that heavy rain could trigger life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in steep terrain.
On Sunday, residents stocked up on necessities including drinking water and food as the storm drew closer.
The NHC also warned about the storm surge Hurricane Polo may produce, saying it could bring large and destructive waves.
In Cabo San Lucas, known for its natural rock arch, authorities limited beach access. Some restaurants in the town, which serves as a base for sport fishers and whale watchers, also shut down.
Baja California Sur’s regional government ordered schools to stay closed on Monday as a precaution.
Governor Víctor Manuel Castro Cosío said temporary shelters had been opened in case residents needed to be evacuated.
Federal authorities have also sent thousands of navy and army personnel, along with specialised machinery.
Polo has been moving slowly toward Mexico’s coastline.
Meteorologists said it was being powered by extremely warm waters linked to the El Niño climate phenomenon.