23 Oct 2023 | 04:45 AM UTC
Mexico: Tropical Storm Norma tracking east-northeastward across the southern Gulf of California late Oct. 22 /update 6
TS Norma tracking east-northeastward across the Gulf of California, Mexico, late Oct. 22. Landfall over Sinaloa State imminent.
Event
Tropical Storm Norma is tracking east-northeastward in the southern Gulf of California late Oct. 22, having passed over southern Baja California Sur Oct. 21. As of 21:00 MDT, the system's center of circulation was approximately 155 km (95 miles) west of Culiacan, Sinaloa State.
Forecast models indicate that the storm will make landfall south of Topolobampo in Sinaloa State early Oct. 23. After landfall, the storm is likely to weaken rapidly and transition into a tropical depression over northern Sinaloa State before dissipating over far southwestern Chihuahua State the evening of Oct. 23. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur over the coming hours.
As of late Oct. 22, authorities have issued the following watches and warnings:
Tropical Storm Warning: Huatabampito to Mazatlan.
Tropical storm conditions are ongoing within the tropical storm warning areas. Forecast models indicate rainfall totals of 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) with localized maximums of up to 45 cm (18 inches) in and near Sinaloa State through Oct. 23. The heavy rainfall will result in flash and urban flooding and landslides in areas of higher terrain. Coastal flooding is possible along the west coast of mainland Mexico within the tropical storm warning area. Swells generated by Norma will continue to affect Mexico's southwestern and west-central coast and Baja California Sur over the coming days. The swells will likely cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.
Reports indicate one fatality in Juan Jose Rios, Sinaloa State, Oct. 22 due to electrocution. Los Mochis International Airport (LMM) and Culiacan International Airport (CUL) in Sinaloa State are closed. Authorities in Sinaloa have also advised residents to avoid the state's beaches due to high tides expected ahead of the arrival of Norma. Schools across Sinaloa are closed Oct. 23.
Some flooding and minor damage have been reported in parts of southern Baja California Sur State as of Oct. 22, but there has been no confirmation of casualties or major disruptions; damage assessments are ongoing and it may take some time for the full extent of the storm's impact to be revealed. Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) and La Paz International Airport (LAP) in Baja California Sur reopened early Oct. 22.
The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions and render some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters poses a serious health threat.
Advice
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast tropical storm conditions. Heed any evacuation orders that may be issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for severe flooding and storm surge. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.
Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the storm's path, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.
