PUERTO VALLARTA (PVDN) – Parts of Mexico’s Pacific coast are on high alert as Beatriz, the latest tropical storm to form in the Eastern Pacific, intensifies, bringing with it the threat of hurricane conditions. Coastal areas, including Zihuatanejo and Manzanillo, are currently under a hurricane warning, with winds expected to exceed 75 mph.
This sudden activity in the Eastern Pacific hurricane season comes after a dormant first five weeks. It was kick-started by the formation of the basin’s first hurricane, Adrian, earlier this week, followed closely by the development of Tropical Storm Beatriz.
Beatriz was spotted forming off the south-central coast of Mexico on Thursday and has been gaining strength since then. The storm is set to track northwestward, running parallel and dangerously close to the Mexican coast through Saturday.
Acapulco, too, is preparing for the oncoming storm, with a tropical storm warning currently in effect. Likewise, a hurricane watch and a tropical storm warning have been issued for Bahia de Banderas, home to the bustling city of Puerto Vallarta.
The extent of the damage Beatriz may cause depends largely on its proximity to the coast. Should the storm’s core veer closer to the shore, damaging winds are to be expected. However, should Beatriz’s center move inland over Mexico sooner, it may quickly lose its strength and die out.
Regardless of its exact trajectory, the storm is expected to cause some degree of storm surge flooding in areas under warnings. As Beatriz approaches and subsequently passes, it will bring bands of heavy rain streaming inland over southwest Mexico. These downpours have the potential to cause flash flooding and landslides, especially in areas of higher terrain.
The consequences of this developing storm are uncertain, but it is crucial for residents in the affected areas to remain vigilant, heed warnings from local authorities, and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their properties.
