Mexico’s Pacific coast could face dangerous surf and rip currents this weekend as Tropical Storm Vance strengthens well offshore and is forecast to become a hurricane.
The US National Hurricane Center’s latest advisory, issued at 9am CST on 22 October, placed Vance about 505 miles (810km) south of Acapulco and 680 miles (1,095km) south-east of Manzanillo. The storm had maximum sustained winds of 60mph (95km/h), was moving north-west at 3mph and had a minimum central pressure of 997 millibars.
There were no coastal watches or warnings in effect at the time of the advisory. However, the National Hurricane Center said Vance was expected to become a hurricane later on 22 October and could reach major-hurricane strength by the weekend. The storm’s forecast track remains offshore, although its intensity and movement could change as it develops.
The main immediate concern for tourism is the sea. Swells generated by Vance are expected to affect parts of southern and south-western Mexico from the weekend and continue into next week. The NHC warned that the swells could create life-threatening surf and rip-current conditions.
The conditions could affect swimming, surfing, boat excursions and other coastal activities in Pacific destinations. Hotels, tour operators and destination managers should monitor local weather-office updates and adjust excursions if necessary.
The advisory did not report airport closures, evacuations or a landfall. Travellers heading to coastal areas should nevertheless check with their accommodation providers and activity operators before visiting beaches or booking marine excursions.
