A tropical storm named Barbara has developed off the south-west coast of Mexico, as indicated by the US National Hurricane Center early Sunday. The system is anticipated to intensify into a hurricane by Monday.
Currently, there are no coastal watches or warnings in effect. The storm has maximum sustained winds recorded at approximately 45 mph (75 kph), with gusts potentially exceeding this speed.
Residents in the Mexican states of Guerrero, Michoacán, Colima, and Jalisco should prepare for heavy rainfall, which may accumulate between 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm), and localized areas might see totals up to 6 inches (15 cm). This excessive rainfall raises the risk of flooding and mudslides.
Additionally, the hurricane center has warned that swells along the south-western coast of Mexico over the coming days could lead to perilous surf and rip current conditions.
In light of past reports, it’s crucial to note that many National Weather Service (NWS) forecast offices along the hurricane-prone Gulf of Mexico coast are currently understaffed, a result of governmental budget cuts. This shortage could hinder forecasting and response efforts during this active hurricane season, which is expected to be particularly concerning in 2025.
Overall, while storm Barbara is currently unfolding, awareness and caution are essential for those in the affected regions to mitigate potential risks. Planning and preparedness can significantly reduce the impact of severe weather events.