Tropical Storm "Ileana" Brings Heavy Rains and Floods to Jalisco, Mexico
On September 12, 2024, Tropical Storm "Ileana" brought heavy rainfall to the state of Jalisco, Mexico, leading to widespread flooding across several municipalities. The storm's effects were particularly felt in the municipality of Cihuatlán, where floodwaters from swollen rivers swept away cars and motorcycles, and entered numerous homes.
According to reports, the downpour heavily impacted the routes leading to the hilly areas of the region, with Melchor Ocampo Street in Cihuatlán being especially affected by the strong water currents. The coastal municipality of Cabo Corrientes also experienced similar flooding when a river overflowed, affecting at least 10 homes. Residents in the area were promptly evacuated to a temporary shelter to ensure their safety.
The National Meteorological Service (SMN) stated that the storm's wide circulation and cloud bands brought very heavy to intense rainfall, thunderstorms, and the possibility of hail to parts of western Mexico and Baja California Sur. The SMN also warned of strong winds, high waves, and potential waterspouts along the coasts of Colima, Jalisco, Nayarit, Sinaloa, and Baja California Sur.
At 15:00 UTC on September 13, the center of Tropical Storm "Ileana" was located approximately 90 km (55 miles) southeast of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The system had maximum sustained winds of 75 km/h (45 mph) and a minimum central pressure of 999 hPa, according to the National Hurricane Center.
On the forecast track, Ileana is expected to move across the southern portion of the Baja California peninsula on September 13 and over the southern and central Gulf of California this weekend. Little change in strength is expected before Ileana reaches the Baja California peninsula, but weakening is anticipated over the weekend, and the storm is forecast to dissipate by Monday, September 16.
A Tropical Storm Warning is currently in effect for the west coast of Baja California Sur, Mexico, extending from Santa Fe southward, as well as the east coast from San Evaristo southward. Additionally, a Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for the east coast of Baja California Sur, north of San Evaristo to Loreto, and for mainland Mexico from Topolobampo to Huatabampito.
The heavy rainfall brought by Ileana has posed a significant risk of flash flooding and mudslides in the affected areas. Residents and authorities in the region are urged to remain vigilant and follow the instructions of local emergency management agencies to ensure their safety during this event.