U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico warned residents and travelers across Baja California and Baja California Sur to prepare for severe weather conditions.
According to authorities, Hurricane Polo is packing sustained winds of up to 165 mph and is expected to bring heavy rainfall and dangerous marine conditions to Mexico’s southwestern coast from Tuesday, September 22 to Thursday, September 24.
Forecasters project the storm will make its closest approach to the Baja California peninsula over the weekend, around September 26–27. Officials plan to issue further instructions as the timeline nears.
The advisory also extends to U.S. citizens along Mexico’s Pacific coastline. As Polo advances, it is expected to cause heavy rain across several states, including Jalisco, Colima, Michoacán, Guerrero, and Oaxaca.
Although the hurricane is not currently forecast to make direct landfall, officials warned that heavy rain could still trigger flash floods and landslides.
“Hazardous ocean conditions—intensified by storms—may result in deadly rip currents and rogue waves. Avoid entering the water or walking on beaches during dangerous conditions, heed warnings from local authorities, and monitor official weather updates closely,” the statement read.
U.S. officials advised citizens in affected areas to take the following precautions:
- Monitor local media for updates, follow directions from local officials, and in case of emergency, call 911.
- Flights could be impacted. Check with your airline for updates.
- Roads could be impacted due to flooding and mudslides, especially in areas of steep terrain. Check road conditions prior to traveling.
- Monitor the National Hurricane Center and the Mexican National Meteorological Service on storm activity and emergency response.
- Be prepared to seek shelter.
- Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. Government assistance.
