A tropical storm rapidly intensifying into a dangerous hurricane in the Pacific Ocean might bring muggy weather to Southern California. Forecasters predict Tropical Storm Polo will become a major hurricane. It is moving closer to southwestern Mexico’s coast, potentially bringing heavy rainfall that could lead to life-threatening flooding and landslides in the region, as per the National Hurricane Center’s forecast.
Bryan Lewis, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Oxnard, mentioned that Polo might pull tropical moisture into Southern California. This outcome depends on atmospheric patterns at upper levels. He highlighted past Pacific storms, such as Hurricane Marie, have enveloped the area with warm, humid air reminiscent of southern climates.
Polo marks the 16th named storm in the Eastern Pacific this year. Its potential effects on Southern California might not manifest until the weekend, according to Lewis. An increase in surf due to a south swell is the most probable impact; however, the extent will depend on the storm’s trajectory, which remains uncertain.
“After a summer dominated by southern swells, vulnerable coastlines might face challenges,” Lewis stated. Emergency declarations have occurred in several counties and towns due to powerful Pacific tropical storms causing high surf, leading to beach erosion. Areas like Laguna Beach, Dana Point, and Carlsbad have reported coastal erosion and sand depletion.
El Niño generally leads to an active hurricane season in the eastern Pacific and heavy winter rainfall in Southern California. This year’s El Niño is anticipated to be the strongest in a generation. Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a statewide emergency, preparing for potential high surf and high-impact storms this winter.
Grace Toohey from Times staff contributed additional insights.
Leave a Reply