Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – The Pacific hurricane season, which began slowly this year, has suddenly intensified with the emergence of three storm systems off the coast of Mexico. As August begins, the National Hurricane Center is monitoring Hurricane Carlotta, Tropical Storm Daniel, and a tropical depression, all situated in the Pacific Ocean. These storms are expected to have varying impacts on the region, including potential hazards to marine and coastal areas.
Hurricane Carlotta
As of 8:00 AM PDT (15:00 UTC), Hurricane Carlotta was located near latitude 19.0 North and longitude 120.0 West. The hurricane is moving toward the west-northwest at a speed of approximately 14 mph (22 km/h). This movement is anticipated to continue, albeit at a slower pace, over the next few days.
Carlotta is a Category 1 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds near 90 mph (150 km/h) and higher gusts. Although little change in strength is expected today, the hurricane is forecast to begin weakening by tonight. Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 10 miles (20 km) from the center, while tropical-storm-force winds extend up to 90 miles (150 km).
The estimated minimum central pressure of Carlotta is 979 mb (28.91 inches), indicating a well-organized system. Swells generated by Carlotta are affecting the coasts of west-central mainland Mexico and the southern Baja California peninsula. These swells are expected to gradually subside, diminishing by Sunday. Residents and mariners are advised to consult local weather offices for updates and safety information.
Tropical Storm Daniel
In addition to Carlotta, the National Hurricane Center is closely monitoring a well-defined area of low pressure in the western East Pacific, identified as EP95. This system is located well to the west-southwest of the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula. Earlier satellite data indicated winds of up to 35-40 mph near the center, accompanied by developing shower and thunderstorm activity.
If current convective trends continue, EP95 could intensify into a short-lived tropical depression or storm before environmental conditions become unfavorable for further development in the next day or two. The formation chances for this system are rated high, with a 70% likelihood of development within the next 48 hours and a 70% chance over the next seven days.
Potential Tropical Depression
Further south, a large area of disorganized showers and thunderstorms, designated as EP96, is situated a few hundred miles south of southern Mexico. This system is associated with a broad area of low pressure. Environmental conditions in this region are generally conducive to gradual development, and there is a high likelihood that a tropical depression will form late this weekend or early next week.
EP96 is expected to move westward to west-northwestward at a speed of 10 to 15 mph, remaining well offshore of the Mexican coast. The formation chance of this system is medium in the next 48 hours, at 60%, but rises to 90% over the next seven days.
Preparedness and Monitoring
With these three storm systems developing in the Pacific, coastal communities and marine interests are urged to remain vigilant and monitor updates from the National Hurricane Center and local weather services. While Hurricane Carlotta is expected to weaken, it still poses a risk of hazardous swells along parts of the Mexican coast. Meanwhile, the potential development of tropical storm systems in EP95 and EP96 underscores the importance of preparedness as the hurricane season progresses.
Residents and visitors in affected areas should stay informed about the latest forecasts and be ready to take necessary precautions to protect life and property. The evolving nature of these storms highlights the dynamic and unpredictable characteristics of the Pacific hurricane season.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - The Pacific hurricane season, which began slowly this year, has suddenly intensified with the emergence of three storm systems off the coast of Mexico. As August begins, the National Hurricane Center is monitoring Hurricane Carlotta, Tropical Storm Daniel, and a tropical depression, all situated in the Pacific Ocean. These storms are expected to have varying impacts on the region, including potential hazards to marine and coastal areas.
