As Hurricane Hilary advances menacingly toward Mexico's Baja California peninsula, experts are sounding the alarm about the potential for "catastrophic and life-threatening" flooding, a risk that extends not only to the peninsula but also across parts of the southwestern United States.
Inching Closer to Landfall
As of 5 a.m., the National Weather Center in Miami has confirmed that Hurricane Hilary is inching perilously close to the Baja coast, just south of Ensenada, and roughly 285 miles (460 kilometers) away from San Diego, California. While the storm's wind speed has lessened to 80 mph (130 kph), it continues to deluge the peninsula with "heavy rains."
Tragedy Strikes
The hurricane's impact has already proven tragic. In Santa Rosalia, a town on the peninsula's eastern coast, one life was lost when a vehicle was swept away in an overflowing stream. Prompt rescue efforts saved four individuals, underscoring the danger posed by the torrential waters.
Ongoing Threat and Southern California's Alert
Though the hurricane's intensity has waned, meteorologists caution that it still poses a significant threat. Notably, it's set to become the first tropical storm to make landfall in Southern California in 84 years. The aftermath could bring forth flash floods, mudslides, isolated tornadoes, powerful winds, and power outages. To preempt the impending danger, authorities issued an evacuation advisory for Santa Catalina Island, urging residents and tourists to leave this coastal destination.
Southern California Braces for Impact
Elizabeth Adams, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service San Diego office, emphasizes the gravity of the situation, warning that rainfall rates of up to 3 inches (7.62 centimeters) per hour could pummel Southern California's mountains and deserts. Such intense rainfall significantly raises the risk of widespread, life-threatening flash floods.
State of Emergency and Urgent Preparations
In light of the impending threat, California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency, prompting officials to urge residents to finalize their preparations by nightfall on Saturday. Experts emphasize that by Sunday, it could be too late to take necessary precautions.
Latest in a Series of Climate Disasters
Hurricane Hilary marks the latest major climate disaster to impact the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Hawaii's Maui Island still grapples with the aftermath of a devastating blaze that claimed over 100 lives and ravaged the historic town of Lahaina, becoming the deadliest U.S. wildfire in a century. Meanwhile, Canada contends with an unparalleled fire season, as firefighters tirelessly battle blazes across the nation.
Current Impact and Future Outlook
Even before its anticipated border crossing on Sunday, Hilary has already unleashed heavy rain and flooding across Mexico and the southwestern U.S. Forecasters predict the potential for up to 10 inches (25 centimeters) of rain in southern California and southern Nevada, equivalent to a year's worth of rain in some areas.
A Call for Vigilance and Preparedness
While the storm has weakened, meteorologists reiterate that the threat remains substantial, particularly concerning the risk of flooding. Anticipated "life-threatening" surf and rip currents, generating waves up to 40 feet (12 meters) high, are expected along Mexico's Pacific coast. As a precaution, many have sought refuge in storm shelters, and rescue operations have been underway in the twin resorts of Los Cabos.
As Hurricane Hilary's impact continues to unfold, communities and authorities are bracing for potential devastation. Timely action, preparedness, and vigilance are key to ensuring the safety and well-being of those in the storm's path.
Stay tuned for ongoing updates as the situation evolves, and concerted efforts continue to safeguard lives and property against the impending force of Hurricane Hilary.
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