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On the afternoon of October 7, a satellite image revealed the powerful presence of Hurricane Priscilla in the East Pacific Ocean, off the coast of Mexico. The National Hurricane Center indicated that Priscilla was approaching Category 3 status, with sustained winds of approximately 105 mph (169 kph) as it moved northwest at 9 mph (15 kph).
Current situation of Hurricane Priscilla
As of Tuesday evening, the eye of Hurricane Priscilla was located about 185 miles (295 kilometers) southwest of the southern tip of Baja California. The storm’s outer bands began impacting the Mexican state of Baja California Sur, leading local authorities to implement precautionary measures.
Precautionary actions in Baja California
In preparation for the approaching storm, the government of Baja California Sur has ordered the closure of educational institutions in Los Cabos and La Paz starting Tuesday. Several shelters have also been set up to provide refuge for residents in areas identified as vulnerable to flooding and strong winds.
Forecasters have issued warnings indicating that parts of southwestern Mexico could receive significant rainfall, with projections of up to 4 inches (10 centimeters) possible from tropical storm Priscilla through Wednesday. This situation has raised alarms about the risk of flash flooding, particularly in the states of Michoacán and Colima.
Tropical storm Jerry develops in the Atlantic
Meanwhile, in the Atlantic Ocean, a new weather system known as Tropical Storm Jerry is gaining strength. The storm has sustained winds of 50 mph (85 kph) and is located approximately 950 miles (1,530 kilometers) east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands, moving west-northwest at a rate of 23 mph (37 kph).
Forecast and potential impact of Jerry
Weather experts anticipate that Tropical Storm Jerry may intensify into a hurricane within the next few days. Swells produced by the storm are expected to reach the Leeward Islands, with the storm’s main body projected to approach the region by late Thursday into Friday.
A tropical storm watch has been issued for several islands, including Barbuda, Anguilla, St. Barthelemy, St. Martin, and Sint Maarten, as officials prepare for its potential impact.
Comparative outlook for both storms
In the Pacific, Hurricane Priscilla is forecasted to begin weakening by Wednesday. It is currently classified as a major hurricane, with wind speeds exceeding 111 mph (180 kph). As Priscilla nears the coast, dangerous surf and rip currents are expected, posing risks for beachgoers.
Meanwhile, farther out in the Pacific, Tropical Storm Octave is reported to be dissipating about 750 miles (1,205 kilometers) southwest of the southern tip of Baja California. Octave has maximum sustained winds of 45 mph (75 kph) and is moving east-southeast at 7 mph (11 kph).
Meteorologists are actively monitoring both Hurricane Priscilla and Tropical Storm Octave as the situation unfolds. Residents in affected areas are advised to stay informed about weather forecasts and follow safety warnings issued by local authorities.
