October 9, 2025 — Hurricane Priscilla, which had threatened to become a major storm, has significantly weakened after tracking along the western coast of Mexico, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous surf to coastal communities.
The storm began as Tropical Storm Priscilla in the Pacific Ocean on Saturday, October 4, 2025, and rapidly strengthened to a hurricane the following day. Priscilla reached its maximum intensity on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, nearing Category 3 status with maximum sustained winds of approximately 110 mph. However, it began a weakening trend shortly thereafter and has since been downgraded to a tropical storm.
Areas Affected and Impact
Although Hurricane Priscilla did not make a direct, sustained landfall at its peak intensity, its effects were widely felt across several regions of Mexico:
- Southwestern Mexico: Outer bands of the storm delivered significant rainfall, with totals reaching up to 6 inches in some localized areas. This heavy rain created a considerable flash flooding risk in the states of Michoacán and Colima, as well as Jalisco and Guerrero.
- Baja California Sur: The popular tourist destinations along the southern tip of the peninsula were placed under a Tropical Storm Watch, bracing for high surf and gusty winds. The storm’s trajectory passed offshore, but the generated life-threatening surf and rip currents were a major concern along the entire coast.
The primary impact has been the threat of flash flooding and hazardous marine conditions. Current reports do not indicate widespread, catastrophic destruction from wind damage, but authorities are monitoring the consequences of the heavy rainfall and localized flooding. No definitive monetary figure for the total estimated destruction has been released, as the primary danger was in the form of rainfall and storm surge rather than a destructive wind-related landfall.
Official Response and Preparedness
Mexican authorities took swift action to prepare for Priscilla’s impact:
- Evacuation Measures: Preemptive measures included the establishment of over a dozen shelters in vulnerable areas, particularly in Los Cabos, to protect residents in high-risk zones.
- Safety Closures: As a precaution, the government of Baja California Sur announced the cancellation of all classes at educational centers in Los Cabos and La Paz beginning Tuesday, October 7.
- Alerts and Warnings: A Tropical Storm Watch was maintained for the southern portion of Baja California Sur, from Cabo San Lucas to Cabo San Lazaro, urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant and heed official advisories.
The focus of the administrative response has been on preventing loss of life through early warnings, safe evacuation staging, and the closure of key facilities to ensure public safety as the storm moved northward parallel to the coast.
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