Tropical Storm Rafael Expected To Emerge
2 AM Update On Invest AL97
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued a Tropical Storm Warning for the coast of northern Mexico from San Blas to Altata, including the Islas Marias. Tropical Storm Rafael is expected to form later today as Invest AL97 moves toward the coast.
At 2 AM EDT, Invest AL97 was located about 160 miles west-southwest of Cabo Corrientes, Mexico, and was moving north-northeast at 12 mph. The system has maximum sustained winds of 40 mph, and is expected to strengthen to a tropical storm later today.
Tropical Storm Rafael is expected to make landfall along the coast of northern Mexico later today or tonight. The NHC is forecasting that Rafael will produce heavy rainfall over portions of western Mexico, with rainfall totals of 4 to 8 inches, and isolated maximum amounts of 12 inches possible. This rainfall could cause flash flooding and mudslides.
The NHC advises residents in the affected areas to monitor the latest forecasts and be prepared to take action if necessary.