Hurricane Hilary approaches southwest US amidst flood alerts.

author: FutureCar Staff    

Hurricane Hilary is approaching Mexico's Baja California peninsula and is expected to bring severe flooding to the region. The storm, now a Category 1 hurricane, is also forecasted to cross into the southwestern United States as a tropical storm, according to the National Weather Service.

The National Weather Center in Miami reported that the maximum sustained wind speed of Hurricane Hilary was 85 mph, down from 90 mph earlier. The storm is currently located about 90 miles south of Punta Eugenia, Mexico, and 450 miles from San Diego, California.

Tragically, one person died in Baja California Sur state when a family of five was swept away into the sea while crossing a stream. Images shared by Mexican officials show flooded areas and roads that have been washed away.

The National Hurricane Center has warned of dangerous rains and coastal storm surges, with up to 10 inches of rainfall expected in some parts of Baja California and California. Flash and urban flooding, especially in the northern areas of the peninsula, are anticipated.

In addition to Baja California, southern California and southern Nevada are also expected to experience rainfall of 3 to 6 inches, with isolated amounts of up to 10 inches. The NHC has issued warnings of dangerous to catastrophic flooding in these regions.

U.S. President Joe Biden has been briefed on the preparations for the hurricane and the efforts of state and local agencies. Precautionary measures, such as canceling non-essential activities and urging people in high-risk zones to move to temporary shelters, have been taken in the Baja California peninsula.

Images shared on social media depict flash floods in Santa Rosalia and the town of Mulege, where one person tragically lost their life while crossing a stream. Mexico's Navy and local firefighters are conducting rescue operations in the affected areas.

The storm is currently about 450 miles south-southeast of San Diego and is moving north-northwest at a speed of nearly 20 miles per hour. U.S. authorities have advised citizens and businesses to take necessary precautions.

In anticipation of the hurricane, numerous flights at the San Diego International Airport have been canceled. Major League Baseball games and soccer matches in Los Angeles have also been rescheduled due to the threat of heavy rains and flooding.

FutureCar Staff