Mexico’s northern Pacific coast is preparing for the arrival of a powerful category‑3 hurricane, known as Polo, which is projected to strike the state of Baja California Sur late Monday or early Tuesday.
The National Hurricane Center predicts maximum sustained winds of 115 mph (185 km/h) and heavy rainfall that could cause life‑threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in steep terrain. The storm surge is expected to bring large, destructive waves.
In response, state authorities have ordered schools to remain closed, opened temporary shelters and deployed thousands of navy, army and specialised personnel along the coast.
Residents in popular tourist towns such as Los Cabos have stocked up on essentials and beach access has been restricted to prevent casualties.
Scientists point to exceptionally warm Pacific waters, driven by the El‑Niño climate phenomenon, as a key factor fuelling Polo’s intensity.
