Tropical Storm Mario Forms Off Mexico Coast Bringing Heavy Rain

Tropical Storm Mario formed off the Pacific coast of Mexico and is expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and possible flash flooding to southern Mexico, particularly in the states of Michoacan, Guerrero, and Colima. The storm, described as 'mini' with sustained winds of 40 mph, is moving west-northwest parallel to the coast and is not forecasted to make landfall. Officials have issued a tropical storm watch from Lazaro Cardenas to Punta San Telmo, with rainfall estimates ranging from 2 to 6 inches, raising concerns about flash flooding in higher terrain. The National Hurricane Center and forecasters predict Mario will strengthen and could potentially become a hurricane as it moves north toward the Baja California Peninsula. While the storm is expected to move away from the coast by Saturday, residents along the southwestern Mexican coast are advised to monitor its progress closely. Updates continue as the situation develops.