Hurricane Polo Threatens Baja California Sur; Hawaii Faces Impact from Hurricane Nolo

Residents of Baja California Sur, Mexico are taking protective measures as Hurricane Polo approaches the peninsula. Authorities have urged people to secure their homes and bolster embankments against the potential threat of high winds, floods, and mudslides.

Polo, a Category 3 storm, is expected to bring dangerous winds and flash floods as it hits the Mexican mainland after affecting Baja California Sur.

In Puerto San Carlos, a fishing town with around 5,700 residents, there’s concern that high tides and strong waves may breach barriers, causing seawater to invade the community. Some residents plan to evacuate to shelters in Ciudad Constitucion, approximately 37 miles away. Rocío Sánchez, a local fisherwoman, noted the high risk due to current tides and expected waves that may compromise earthen barriers.

Polo’s maximum sustained winds reached 115 mph according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center. Forecasters predict it will maintain hurricane strength upon reaching the Mexican mainland either late Monday night or early Tuesday.

Laura Velázquez from Mexico’s Civil Protection Agency advised residents to stay indoors and avoid areas where the hurricane makes landfall. Travel is restricted and ports across the region are closed.

Meanwhile, Hurricane Nolo continues to impact parts of Hawaii despite moving away from the island. High winds from Nolo are responsible for flood risks and mudslides across the region. A wind advisory and high surf advisory remain in effect.

Nolo’s outer bands can lead to life-threatening conditions, particularly on Hawaii’s Big Island, with some areas experiencing up to 20 inches of rain. More than 120 National Guard members have been activated following an emergency proclamation. President Trump’s emergency declaration allows FEMA to provide support.

Power outages persist across Maui, with over 10,000 businesses and homes affected due to storm damage.

In Mexico, the Mexican navy is preparing to deliver humanitarian aid to regions isolated by the storm’s impact. San Juanico, a town in Polo’s projected path, is particularly vulnerable with limited electricity and frequent outages. There is concern over potential health facility access being compromised due to damaged roads.

Tropical Storm Rachel also formed off Mexico’s southwest coast, although it poses no immediate threat according to forecasters.

Hawaii is still recovering from past hurricanes, notably Hurricane Lala, which caused significant damage on the Big Island.

Journalists Eduardo Verdugo, Megan Janetsky, Julie Walker, Eugene Garcia, and Gregory Bull contributed to this report, emphasizing the importance of supporting reliable journalism for informed civil dialogue.