In brief
Tropical Storm Priscilla is strengthening in the Pacific Ocean, with maximum sustained winds reaching 65 mph. A tropical storm watch has been issued for parts of southwestern Mexico, as the storm is expected to reach hurricane status soon. Up to 6 inches of rain could fall, posing danger to coastal areas. Another storm in the Pacific, Octave, remains distant with no immediate threat.
MIAMI (AP) — Tropical Storm Priscilla was slowly strengthening as it developed in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Mexico early Sunday morning.
According to the Miami-based National Hurricane Center, Priscilla is classified as a “large tropical storm,” with winds reaching tropical storm-force extending up to 140 miles (220 kilometers) from its center.
The storm's maximum sustained winds have been recorded at 65 mph (100 kph), and it is currently situated approximately 305 miles (495 kilometers) south-southwest of Cabo Corientes, moving northwest at a speed of 5 mph (7 kph).
A tropical storm watch has been issued for parts of southwestern Mexico's coastline, specifically from Punta San Telmo to Punta Mita, indicating that the region could experience tropical storm conditions throughout Sunday and Monday. Rainfall accumulations may reach up to 6 inches (15 centimeters), along with the risk of life-threatening surf and rip current conditions along the shores.
Forecasters anticipate that Priscilla will achieve hurricane strength by Sunday night or early Monday, tracking parallel to the coastline in the days that follow.
The situation is further complicated by another tropical storm, Octave, which is currently navigating far from shore with no landfall expected. Octave has seen a slight increase in wind strength, reaching 70 mph (110 kph), but poses no immediate threats or warnings to coastal areas.
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