The Eastern Pacific is experiencing a surge in tropical activity as two storms, Ivo and Henriette, continue to strengthen, with both on a trajectory to become hurricanes this weekend. While one storm is set to bring hazardous conditions to the coast of Mexico, the other is expected to steer clear of Hawaii.
According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Tropical Storm Ivo is the more immediate concern for land. As of Friday morning, August 8, Ivo was located approximately 180 miles south-southeast of the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula. The storm is moving west-northwest at about 10 mph, packing maximum sustained winds of 60 mph with higher gusts. Forecasters anticipate that Ivo will intensify into a hurricane later on Friday before it begins to weaken over the weekend as it moves over cooler waters and into a drier, more stable air mass.
While Ivo’s center is expected to pass well south of the Baja California peninsula, its effects will be felt along the coast. The NHC has cautioned that the storm will generate significant swells, leading to life-threatening surf and dangerous rip currents for Baja California Sur and the southwestern coast of Mexico through the weekend. Rainfall accumulations of 1 to 4 inches are possible across parts of western Mexico, with isolated areas potentially seeing up to 6 inches, which could lead to localized flooding.
Further out in the Pacific, Tropical Storm Henriette is also gaining strength. Located about 975 miles east of Hilo, Hawaii, Henriette was moving west with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph. The storm is forecast to gradually intensify, likely reaching hurricane strength over the weekend as it tracks west-northwestward.
However, residents of Hawaii can be reassured, as forecasters have expressed high confidence that Henriette will remain far to the north of the Hawaiian Islands. In an advisory on Friday, the NHC stated, “Confidence remains high that Henriette will remain far to the north of Hawaii.” No coastal watches or warnings are in effect for the state.
The Atlantic Ocean is also being monitored, though with less immediate threats. Post-tropical cyclone Dexter has moved away into the north-central Atlantic, and a weak area of low pressure off the coast of North Carolina has only a minimal chance of development. However, a more promising tropical wave in the central tropical Atlantic is being watched closely. The NHC gives this system a 60% chance of developing into a tropical depression late this weekend or early next week as it moves west-northwestward.
As hurricane season ramps up, officials urge residents in all coastal areas to be prepared. A tropical depression becomes a named tropical storm when its sustained winds reach 39 mph, and it is classified as a hurricane when winds hit 74 mph. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recommends having a disaster plan and supply kit ready. Key preparations include:
- Developing an evacuation plan: Know where you would go and how you would get there if an evacuation is ordered.
- Assembling disaster supplies: Stock up on non-perishable food, water, medications, batteries, and other essentials to last for several days.
- Checking insurance coverage: Review your home and renters insurance policies. Remember that standard policies do not cover flooding, which requires a separate policy that often has a 30-day waiting period.
- Strengthening your home: Secure loose items outdoors, trim trees, and install storm shutters if available.
Authorities will continue to provide updates on these developing systems as the peak months of the hurricane season continue.
