World
Rare Twin Hurricane Warnings Issued for Atlantic and Pacific
Authorities in Mexico have issued rare twin hurricane warnings for both the Atlantic and Pacific, as Hurricane Tammy and Hurricane Norma threaten the northern coastline. While neither storm poses a direct threat to the United States, the National Hurricane Center has warned that the most severe impact from Hurricane Tammy is likely to be felt in Antigua, Barbuda, and the Leeward Islands. Residents in these areas are advised to complete preparations to protect lives and property.
On the islands of Guadeloupe and Dominica, officials have urged residents to be aware of shelter locations and take necessary precautions. Although airports remain open in Dominica, schools have been closed. Forecasters predict that Hurricane Tammy, with tropical storm-force winds extending up to 125 miles, will pass over or near the Leeward and Windward Islands by early Sunday. The storm may bring life-threatening surf, storm surges up to 3 feet, and up to 8 inches of rainfall, potentially leading to flash flooding and mudslides, particularly in town centers and higher terrain.
In the Atlantic basin, hurricanes occurring in October are unusual, especially to the southeast. Experts attribute these late storms to the unusually warm Atlantic Ocean, which has been linked to the El Niño weather pattern. The warm ocean temperatures have increased the likelihood of storm formation in less common locations.
Meanwhile, along Mexico’s Pacific coast, the Mexican government has issued tropical storm warnings for parts of Baja California Sur in response to Hurricane Norma. Forecasters predict that the hurricane, currently around the popular tourist town of Cabo San Lucas, will move east to the mainland of Mexico by Monday. With winds reaching approximately 115 mph and gusts up to 160 mph, Hurricane Norma is categorized as a strong category 3 hurricane.
Baja California Sur, as well as areas further south into Sinaloa, could experience up to 15 inches of rainfall, potentially causing mudslides and flash flooding. Furthermore, a dangerous storm surge is expected to flood the coastline due to the onshore direction of the anticipated winds.
