In September 2019, Mexico faced a significant Pacific Hurricane Threat as Hurricane Lorena, a Category 1 storm, impacted the Pacific coast and Baja California Peninsula. The storm brought severe weather, prompting evacuations and causing widespread damage, including at least one reported fatality. This article examines the hurricane’s path, impact, and the response efforts undertaken by Mexican authorities to protect its citizens and infrastructure.
Lorena’s Formation and Trajectory
Hurricane Lorena, the thirteenth named storm of the 2019 Pacific hurricane season, originated from a tropical wave that entered the East Pacific basin on September 16, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center. The storm rapidly intensified, becoming a tropical storm on September 17 and reaching hurricane status by September 19. Its path proved unpredictable, contributing to the varied impacts experienced across the affected regions. This erratic trajectory complicated preparation and response efforts, requiring authorities to adapt quickly to the changing threat.
First Landfall and Initial Impact
Lorena first made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane in Jalisco, southwestern Mexico, on September 19. This initial impact brought torrential rainfall, flooding, and mudslides to several states, including Jalisco, Colima, Guerrero, and Michoacán. The scale of the rainfall was considerable; Governor José Ignacio Peralta of Colima reported nearly 8 inches of rain in under 24 hours. The deluge caused significant agricultural damage, with over 7,400 acres of crops such as bananas and papayas affected. Furthermore, at least 201 homes were damaged, and infrastructure suffered as roads were washed out, and power outages were reported in multiple areas, according to Mexico News Daily.
Baja California Peninsula Under Threat
After interacting with mountainous terrain and briefly weakening to a tropical storm, Lorena re-strengthened into a hurricane over the warm waters of the Gulf of California. This resurgence posed a direct threat to the Baja California Peninsula. As a result, hurricane warnings and watches were issued for the region, encompassing popular resort areas like Los Cabos and La Paz. The potential for significant impact prompted a large-scale response from Mexican authorities.
Evacuation and Preparations
In anticipation of Lorena’s arrival, Mexican authorities, including Protección Civil and state governments, initiated evacuation procedures. Hundreds of residents and tourists were moved to shelters. In Baja California Sur alone, 787 people sought refuge in 18 temporary facilities. The U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Mexico reported the closure of schools for approximately 506,000 students to ensure their safety. Additionally, numerous flights in and out of Baja California Sur were canceled, and the port of Cabo San Lucas was closed to navigation, highlighting the severity of the impending threat and the comprehensive measures taken to mitigate potential risks.
Second Landfall and Los Cabos
Lorena made its second landfall near La Ventana in Baja California Sur on September 21. While Los Cabos was largely spared a direct hit due to a late shift in the storm’s trajectory, the peninsula still experienced heavy rains, strong winds, and dangerous surf. AccuWeather reported that despite avoiding a direct impact on Los Cabos, the region faced significant challenges due to the storm’s proximity. Tragically, one fatality was reported in Baja California Sur when a man drowned attempting to save his child from being pulled out to sea by a large wave, underscoring the dangers posed by the hurricane’s impact.
Final Landfall and Dissipation
As Lorena weakened to a tropical storm and then a tropical depression, its remnants moved inland, making a final landfall in Sonora on September 22. While isolated heavy rainfall was reported in Sonora, no significant damage was immediately apparent. However, two fishermen were reported missing in the Gulf of California. By September 24, the storm’s moisture had dissipated inland over Arizona in the United States, marking the end of Lorena’s active phase.
Aftermath and Lessons Learned
Hurricane Lorena’s impact on Mexico in September 2019 serves as a reminder of the destructive potential of Pacific hurricanes. The storm brought significant rainfall, flooding, and damage to infrastructure and agriculture across multiple states. The response from Mexican authorities, including evacuations and the provision of shelter, helped to mitigate the potential for even greater loss of life. The unpredictable nature of the storm’s path underscored the importance of preparedness and adaptability in the face of natural disasters. The FloodList reported on the widespread disruption and damage, highlighting the need for continued investment in disaster resilience and mitigation measures along Mexico’s Pacific coast.
