Heavy rains could cause life‑threatening flooding and landslides along Mexico’s Pacific coast, the US National Hurricane Center warned.
Published On 24 Sep 2026
Hurricane Polo has driven heavy rain and strong surf along Mexico’s Pacific coast, while Tropical Storm Nolo is nearing Hawaii, raising the threat of severe flooding.
On Thursday morning, the storm was located roughly 130 miles (209 km) south‑southwest of Zihuatanejo, moving northwest at 7 mph (11 km/h) and expected to veer west‑northwest later in the day, moving farther offshore before curving northwest on Saturday.
Forecasters anticipate that Polo will retain Category 5 intensity as it tracks along Mexico’s coastline for the coming days.
Although the eye and the most intense winds are projected to stay over water, the heavy rainfall could trigger life‑threatening floods and landslides, the US National Hurricane Center warned from Miami.
A hurricane watch has been declared for Hawaii County, and emergency preparations are underway as Tropical Storm Nolo may strike the island on Friday or Saturday, according to the National Weather Service.
John Bravender, a warning coordination meteorologist for the weather service, noted during a Wednesday afternoon press briefing that Tropical Storm Nolo could intensify into a major hurricane.
Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda urged residents in a video message to begin storm preparations, recommending they assemble emergency kits with food, water and medication, while also trimming vegetation and clearing drains.
He warned that the situation was very serious and that the rain was already beginning.
Governor Josh Green’s office announced that public schools and state and county offices on Hawaii’s Big Island will close on Thursday and Friday, and Maui County will close its schools on Friday in anticipation of heavy rain, strong winds and flooding.
