In brief
Hurricane Priscilla is currently off the coast of Mexico, generating maximum sustained winds of 85 mph. A tropical storm watch has been issued for Baja California Sur, with parts of the region expected to receive up to 6 inches of rain, leading to flash flooding risks. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Octave is weakening further out at sea with no immediate threats to land.
MIAMI (RTW News) — Western Mexico is facing severe weather as Hurricane Priscilla strikes, bringing intense rainfall, strong winds, and hazardous surf conditions to coastal areas and the Baja California peninsula. The National Hurricane Center has issued a tropical storm watch for Baja California Sur, encompassing regions from Cabo San Lucas to Santa Fe.Hurricane Priscilla is situated approximately 230 miles (370 kilometers) south-southwest of Cabo Corrientes and is currently generating maximum sustained winds of 85 mph (140 kph). Forecasters are warning that southwestern Mexico could experience as much as 6 inches (15 centimeters) of rain from the storm's outer bands through Wednesday, raising concerns for flash flooding specifically in Michoacán and Colima states.Additionally, the hurricane's swells are impacting the Mexican coast, leading to risks of life-threatening surf and rip currents, according to meteorologists.As conditions develop, forecasters predict that Hurricane Priscilla will strengthen into a Category 2 storm, nearing major hurricane status within the next few days.In nearby waters, Tropical Storm Octave is in a state of decline, currently situated about 885 miles (1,425 kilometers) west-southwest of the southern tip of Baja California. This storm is producing maximum sustained winds of 65 mph (100 kph), but there are no watches or warnings currently in place, and it is expected to dissipate over the coming days.