In brief
Mexico’s northern Pacific is on high alert as Hurricane Polo, a Category‑3 storm, is set to strike Baja California Sur next Monday or Tuesday. The National Hurricane Center warns of torrential rain, flooding, mudslides and destructive waves. Local authorities have ordered schools closed, opened temporary shelters and deployed military forces to aid residents. Residents have stocked up on supplies while beach access is restricted to protect holidaymakers. The storm’s path is being accelerated by warm El Niño waters.
The Pacific coast of Mexico is preparing for Hurricane Polo, a Category‑3 storm that is expected to make landfall on either Monday or early Tuesday. Meteorologists say the storm’s maximum sustained winds will reach about 115 mph (185 km/h).
The National Hurricane Center forecasts heavy rainfall that could trigger life‑threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in the steep terrain of Baja California Sur, home to the popular resort area of Los Cabos.
Residents have already stocked up on drinking water and basic supplies as the storm approaches, while beach access has been limited to prevent shoreline danger from dangerous waves and storm surge.
Local officials have closed schools on Monday as a precautionary measure and opened temporary shelters for evacuees. Governor Víctor Manuel Castro Cosío has deployed thousands of navy and army personnel, equipped with specialised machinery, to support emergency response operations.
Polo’s path is being intensified by the unusually warm waters caused by the El Niño climate phenomenon, adding to the storm’s destructive potential.
Authorities in Cabo San Lucas, which serves as a hub for sport fishers and whale watchers, have shut down several restaurants and restricted beach access until the storm passes.
Officials urge residents and visitors in the region to stay indoors, secure loose outdoor items, and follow official updates as Hurricane Polo approaches.
