The key facts

  • Trudy reached Category 3 with winds of 195 km/h, moving northwest southwest of Acapulco
  • The NHC warns of life-threatening flooding and landslides over the weekend
  • Waves of 4–5 meters off the coasts of Guerrero and Michoacán; authorities urge following official bulletins

Storm intensification

Hurricane Trudy strengthened to Category 3 in the eastern Pacific on Friday, threatening heavy rain, flooding and landslides along Mexico's southwestern and west-central coast. According to Mexico's National Meteorological Service (SMN), the storm is located southwest of Acapulco in the state of Guerrero and is moving northwest with maximum sustained winds of 195 km/h (121 mph) and stronger gusts.

Flood warnings

The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) warned that the storm could bring life-threatening flooding and landslides to parts of Mexico over the weekend. Heavy rainfall is expected in several states on the Pacific coast, raising the risk of flash floods, rising rivers and waterways overflowing their banks. Affected areas include Guerrero, Michoacán, Colima and Jalisco, where authorities are tracking the storm's path. The SMN noted that rainfall may be especially intense in parts of Guerrero and Oaxaca — southwestern states vulnerable to flooding.

Wind and waves

Strong winds capable of affecting maritime activity and creating dangerous conditions for vessels are expected along coastal areas. According to the Mexican meteorological service, waves may reach 4–5 meters (13–16 feet) off parts of the coasts of Guerrero and Michoacán. The NHC warned that large swells from the hurricane could spread along Mexico's southwestern coast, creating dangerous surf and rip currents.

Authorities' recommendations

Authorities urged residents of coastal communities and areas prone to flooding and landslides to follow official weather bulletins and civil protection recommendations. Residents are advised to remain alert in light of further warnings as the hurricane approaches the shore. The SMN and NHC continue to monitor the storm and publish updates on its intensity, movement and possible impacts. Trudy's development is taking place during the eastern Pacific hurricane season, when tropical systems can bring heavy rain and destructive winds to Mexico's Pacific coast.