PUERTO VALLARTA (PVDN) – Tropical Storm Eugene is intensifying in the Mexican Pacific, moving parallel to the coast of the Baja California peninsula, and could reach hurricane status within hours, the United States National Hurricane Center (NHC) warned on Sunday.
As of the latest update, Eugene was located 205 kilometers (127 miles) southwest of the peninsula, blowing maximum sustained winds of 110 kilometers per hour (68 miles per hour) and moving at a pace of 30 km/h (18.6 mph) in a west-northwest direction, according to data provided by the Miami-based NHC.
“Eugene could become a hurricane later today before starting to weaken on Monday,” the NHC stated in a report. Fortunately, no coastal warnings were issued at this time.
The state water commission in Mexico, Conagua, predicts that the storm will cause very heavy rains in Baja California Sur, along with waves reaching up to four meters (13 feet) in height. Neighboring states of Nayarit and Sinaloa are also expected to experience these significant waves.
Several well-known tourist destinations lie in the path of Eugene, including Cabo San Lucas in Baja California Sur, and San Blas and San Pancho in Nayarit. Additionally, the port city of Mazatlan is located in Sinaloa.
The NHC forecast indicates that Eugene will likely continue on its current trajectory through Tuesday, with winds extending up to 130 km (81 miles) from the center of the storm.
This follows the late June disturbance caused by Hurricane Beatriz, which also affected the Pacific coast of Mexico, dumping heavy rains in its path.
Residents and tourists in the affected areas are urged to monitor the storm’s progress and heed any advisories or warnings from local authorities. Preparations for possible flooding, heavy rains, and high waves should be undertaken, especially in the areas known for tourist activities.
The rapid intensification of Eugene serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of tropical weather systems, and the importance of vigilance and preparedness as the hurricane season progresses. Authorities are closely monitoring the storm and will continue to provide updates as Eugene approaches the potential to make landfall.
