By SDCN Staff
A powerful Category 5 hurricane is intensifying in the Pacific Ocean off Mexico’s southwestern coast, prompting warnings of heavy rainfall, dangerous surf and potential flooding in affected areas, while large swells could reach parts of Southern California this weekend.
According to the National Hurricane Center, the storm is packing maximum sustained winds of 165 mph, with higher gusts. It is expected to bring significant rainfall to coastal regions of southwestern Mexico through Thursday.
A tropical storm watch remains in effect for portions of southwestern Mexico, extending westward to Playa Perula.
Forecasters say Polo could produce 3 to 6 inches of rain across coastal areas of the Mexican states of Guerrero and Michoacán, with isolated totals reaching up to 8 inches through Thursday. Forecasters warn the rainfall could trigger life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in mountainous and steep terrain.
Additional rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches are forecast for coastal portions of Oaxaca, Colima and Jalisco through Thursday.
The hurricane is also generating large ocean swells that are expected to impact sections of Mexico’s southwestern coast over the next several days. Forecasters warn the swells could create life-threatening surf conditions and dangerous rip currents.
The storm’s influence may also be felt farther north, with large waves and an increased risk of coastal flooding possible along parts of Southern California’s coastline this weekend.
Residents and beachgoers are urged to monitor forecasts and heed any advisories issued by local authorities.
