MIAMI (AP) — Tropical Storm Lorena has weakened to a remnant low, but meteorologists warn of continued life-threatening risks in parts of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula and the states of Sonora and Sinaloa. Forecasters highlighted the potential for flash flooding and mudslides in these regions as the effects of the storm linger.
According to the U.S. National Hurricane Center, Lorena now has maximum sustained winds of 35 mph (56 kph) and is stationary approximately 170 miles (274 kilometers) west of Cabo San Lazaro, Mexico. The weather agency predicts that Lorena will further weaken and dissipate by Sunday. However, elements of the storm could still result in isolated rainfall amounts reaching up to 12 inches (30 centimeters) in various locations across the Mexican states of Baja California Sur, Baja California, Sonora, and Sinaloa. The risk for flash flooding and mudslides is expected to persist through Friday night.
The Mexican government had already discontinued all watches and warnings related to Lorena as of Thursday. Despite this, the potential for heavy rainfall remains concerning in neighboring states of Arizona and New Mexico, where the weather center anticipates rain amounts of up to 4 inches (10 centimeters), possibly leading to isolated flash flooding into Saturday.
Meanwhile, Hurricane Kiko continues to be a significant weather threat. As a Category 3 storm on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, Kiko’s maximum sustained winds are currently near 125 mph (201 kph). The storm is located about 1,310 miles (2,108 kilometers) east-southeast of Hilo, Hawaii, and is on a westward track at 9 mph (14 kph). Forecasters expect Kiko to strengthen somewhat on Friday, but anticipate it will weaken throughout the weekend.
While there are currently no watches or warnings in effect for Kiko, the hurricane could bring rain and wind impacts to Hawaii next week. Meteorologists indicate that it is premature to ascertain the exact location or intensity of these potential impacts. Consequently, residents and officials in Hawaii are encouraged to closely monitor the storm's trajectory and developments.
Forecasters indicate that swells generated by Hurricane Kiko may start reaching the Hawaiian Islands by the end of the weekend. As the storm continues to develop, it remains crucial for those in the storm's path to stay informed and prepared for potential changes in the forecast.
