On Sunday, Tropical Storm Norma advanced into mainland Mexico after making landfall as a Category 1 hurricane near Los Cabos, located at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula.
Although Norma had been a Category 4 hurricane, its intensity had diminished by the time it reached land. The storm caused significant power outages and left tens of thousands without electricity.
As it progressed northeastward across the Gulf of California toward Sinaloa, its weakened winds still prompted damage and flooding concerns.
Authorities in Sinaloa have announced school closures and opened 120 shelters in anticipation of continued heavy rains and possible mudslides.
Norma, which is moving at around 60 mph (95 km/h), was reported to be approximately 120 miles west of Culiacan and 65 miles south-southwest of Los Mochis. The U.S. National Hurricane Center warns that the storm’s impact will persist, affecting southern Baja California as well.
Hurricane Tammy brings minor damage to Barbuda, with no major injuries reported.In Los Cabos, where fallen trees obstructed some streets, tourists started to venture out as the air terminal resumed operations.
American visitors like Henry Brown, who had sought shelter in their hotel, expressed relief as they planned their departure. Meanwhile, others, such as Noah Johnson and his family, opted to continue their vacation despite some businesses remaining closed.
Further south in La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, severe rain led to airport closures and blocked roads due to debris. A ship carrying 400 people remained stranded in the bay due to a closed port.
The Mexican navy has deployed 5,000 marines to assist with the situation, addressing immediate needs with supplies and aid.
In the Caribbean, Hurricane Tammy caused minor damage to Barbuda but spared the island from severe impacts. Tammy hit the island with 92 mph winds and heavy rain, causing power outages and slight structural damage.
Fortunately, no major infrastructural harm was reported. Mainland Antigua experienced only minor issues, with a few broken branches and utility lines. The island’s response included early closures of businesses and efforts to stock essential supplies in preparation for the storm.