Storm Ileana/ Mexico tropical storm/ Gulf of California storm/ Newslooks/ MEXICO CITY/ Tropical Storm Ileana is moving northward over the southern Gulf of California, bringing heavy rains to Mexico’s coastal regions. The storm, with winds of 40 mph, prompted warnings from Altata to Huatabampito. While Los Cabos saw heavy rain and flooding on Friday, authorities continue to urge caution, with schools closed and shelters prepared.
Tropical Storm Ileana Sweeps Toward Northern Mexico: Quick Looks
- Storm Warnings Issued: Mexico issued tropical storm warnings for northern Sinaloa and southern Sonora as Ileana heads northward.
- Flooding and Alerts: Los Cabos saw significant rainfall, with roads flooded and safety alerts in place.
- Preparedness Efforts: Local authorities in Los Cabos opened 20 shelters and suspended schools as a precaution.
- Tourism Impact: Some flights were canceled, but resorts remained operational despite the storm’s presence.
Tropical Storm Ileana Moves N. Over Gulf of CA, Brings Heavy Rain to Mexican Coast
Deep Look
Tropical Storm Ileana is moving northward over the southern Gulf of California, bringing intense rain and strong winds to parts of Mexico’s northern coastal regions. The Mexican government issued tropical storm warnings on Saturday for areas from Altata to Huatabampito, while watches for Baja California Sur, including the tourist-heavy Los Cabos, were discontinued after heavy rains pounded the region.
According to the U.S. National Hurricane Center, Ileana was traveling at 7 mph (11 kph) with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph (65 kph). As of Saturday afternoon, the storm was about 35 miles (55 kilometers) south-southeast of Los Mochis, Mexico. Warnings remain in place for northern Sinaloa and the southern coast of Sonora, areas expected to be impacted by the storm’s continued movement.
Impact in Los Cabos
On Friday, heavy rains swept across the Baja California Peninsula, triggering warnings in popular tourist areas like Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. Municipalities in Los Cabos and La Paz were placed under red alert, with local officials advising residents to avoid crossing rivers, streams, and other low-lying areas prone to flooding.
Juan Manuel Arce Ortega from Los Cabos Civil Protection warned residents to remain cautious, urging them to stay home and avoid venturing into dangerous areas. “The priority has to be safety, starting with the workers,” said Lyzzette Liceaga, a tour operator in Los Cabos, highlighting efforts to ensure those living in risk areas received the latest advisories.
In preparation for the storm, authorities set up 20 temporary shelters in Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo to accommodate residents who might need to evacuate their homes. Schools across the region were also closed on Friday due to the weather.
Life in Los Cabos Amid the Storm
Despite the constant rain, life in the resort areas continued with some adjustments. At the Hacienda Beach Club and Residences in Cabo San Lucas, valet worker Alan Galvan described the situation. “The rain isn’t very strong right now, but the waves are choppy,” he said. “The guests are very calm and already came down for coffee.” Galvan added that although some flights were canceled, the atmosphere at the resort remained calm.
The storm’s rain caused flooding in several areas, leading some resorts to stack sandbags along their perimeters as a precaution. Even with the storm’s presence, some locals and tourists could still be seen walking along boat docks under umbrellas, taking in the weather as safely as possible.
Ongoing Preparedness and Safety Measures
Mexico’s federal Civil Protection authority emphasized the importance of staying indoors until the storm passes. Residents in areas prone to flooding were advised to move to temporary shelters if necessary. “We give them the information shared by the authorities, such as updates from firefighters in risk areas, so they can go to the shelters if necessary,” Liceaga explained.
Though the worst of the storm may have passed for Baja California, the northern coastal regions are now bracing for the heavy rains and winds as Ileana continues its northward trajectory. Local authorities remain vigilant, urging residents to heed safety advisories.
