Hurricane Polo Threatens Baja Peninsula; Hawaii Braces for Nolo

Residents of Baja California Sur, Mexico, took emergency measures as Hurricane Polo approached, posing a risk of high winds, floods, and mudslides. People in the region secured their homes, while workers reinforced embankments with dirt and rubble.

In Puerto San Carlos, a fishing town with around 5,700 residents, concerns grew that high tides and waves from Polo could breach protective barriers. Some families planned to evacuate to shelters in Ciudad Constitucion, 37 miles away, while evacuations commenced statewide. “Civil Protection advised us here in San Carlos to evacuate due to the high risk,” said Rocío Sánchez, a local fisherwoman.

Polo’s Impact on Mexico

Hurricane Polo was a Category 3 storm on Monday morning, with sustained winds reaching 115 mph (185 kph). The U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami warned of life-threatening winds and flash floods expected soon in Baja California Sur, predicting the storm would later hit mainland Mexico. Reports indicated possible adverse weather effects in the U.S. Southwest later in the week.

Laura Velázquez, national coordinator for Mexico’s Civil Protection Agency, noted that Polo would make landfall later on Monday. “Stay off the streets and seek shelter if at risk,” she warned during a briefing. Travel suspensions and port closures were implemented in the affected region.

Hurricane Nolo’s Threat to Hawaii

Hurricane Nolo, positioned southwest of Hawaii, brought challenges despite moving away. With maximum winds nearing 155 mph (249 kph), the storm led to advisories remaining in effect across the Big Island. Nolo’s bands threatened up to 20 inches (50 cm) of rain, posing flood and mudslide risks on multiple islands.

Hawaiian Electric reported extensive power outages affecting over 10,000 customers on Maui. Storm damages caused by high winds halted helicopter inspections over mountainous areas. Evacuation orders due to nearby brush fires were lifted on Monday.

Pacific Hurricane Season and El Niño

This season witnesses above-average Pacific storm activities, aligning with El Niño patterns known for increased tropical storms and hurricanes, according to forecaster Bob Oravec. With Polo’s approach, the Mexican navy prepared humanitarian aid for isolated coastal communities.

San Juanico, a fishing town on Baja’s coast, faced potential disruptions. Gloriely Robles Meza, a hotel manager, expressed concerns about washed-out roads blocking access to medical care, a sentiment echoed as army support arrived over the weekend to prepare for emergencies.

Tropical Storm Rachel also emerged off Mexico’s southwest coast with sustained winds of 50 mph (85 kph), though no coastal watches were issued. Hawaii’s response included activating over 120 National Guard members statewide. U.S. President Trump authorized emergency assistance, emphasizing federal support for relief efforts.

Photojournalist Eduardo Verdugo contributed from Puerto San Carlos, with input from other reporters in Mexico City, New York, and Hawaii.