Tropical Storm John Expected to Strengthen Near Mexico

Tropical Storm John is intensifying and is expected to become a hurricane by Monday afternoon as it approaches Mexico's Pacific coast, with landfall anticipated near Puerto Escondido on Tuesday. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued a hurricane warning from Punta Maldonado to Bahias de Huatulco, while a tropical storm warning extends to Salina Cruz, prompting urgent preparations for strong winds, storm surges, and potentially life-threatening flash flooding. The storm is currently about 240 kilometers south of Punta Maldonado, with sustained winds of approximately 65 kph (40 mph) and expected heavy rainfall of up to 50 centimeters in some areas, which could disrupt travel and tourism across the region. Residents and travelers in popular tourist destinations such as Oaxaca, Chiapas, and Guerrero should prepare for possible road closures and flight delays due to the storm conditions. The NHC emphasizes the need for prompt action to safeguard lives and property as the storm approaches. Acapulco, which was previously devastated by Hurricane Otis, is forecasted to be spared from this storm’s impact.