Hurricane Flossie Forms Off Mexico's Pacific Coast

Hurricane Flossie Forms Off Mexico's Pacific Coast

Hurricane Flossie has developed off the southwestern Pacific coast of Mexico. The US National Hurricane Center reported that Flossie reached Category 1 status on Monday night, with sustained winds of 75 mph (120 kph). The hurricane is currently moving west-northwest, situated about 175 miles (280 kilometers) south of Manzanillo. Flossie is expected to remain offshore, though several Mexican states may experience rainfall.

Tropical Storm Warning Issued

Previously a tropical storm, Flossie's strengthened, with winds reaching 65 mph (100 kph). It was located about 170 miles (270 kilometers) southwest of Zihuatanejo, moving northwest at 12 mph. The Mexican government has issued a tropical storm warning from Punta San Telmo to Playa Perula. A tropical storm watch is also in effect from Zihuatanejo to Cabo Corrientes, indicating possible tropical storm conditions within 48 hours.

Rainfall Expected

Flossie is forecast to intensify rapidly, but is expected to skirt the coast. Moderate rainfall is anticipated in Oaxaca, Guerrero, Michoacan, Colima, and Jalisco. The remnants of Tropical Storm Barry are also bringing heavy rain to Mexico's Gulf coast, after making landfall south of Tampico.