Hurricane Polo is intensifying as it approaches the coast of Baja California Sur, with wind speeds estimated at 180 mph, surpassing the Category 5 threshold, according to an update from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on Friday morning. The public advisory stated, "Recent satellite intensity estimates indicate that Polo has significantly strengthened with maximum sustained winds now estimated to be 180 mph." A subsequent advisory noted that fluctuations in intensity are expected on Friday, with some weakening anticipated over the weekend.
Forecasters project that the hurricane will approach Baja California Sur as a strong hurricane early next week. While it is not currently expected to make landfall in California, its current track suggests it may move through Mexico and into Texas and New Mexico by midweek.
Heavy rainfall in Baja California Sur is expected to lead to flooding and mudslides. Embassy officials have warned American tourists about the dangers of remaining in the area during the storm and have advised them to listen to local media and follow the directions of local officials.
NOAA forecasters have advised locals to monitor the storm closely, as watches could be issued as soon as Saturday. Internet meteorologist Max Velocity noted the storm's remarkable strength on social media, stating, "This is an extraordinary milestone: Polo is the first hurricane on record to reach Category 5 strength three separate times with all three peaks occurring in the Eastern Pacific." He added that at 180 mph, Polo has reached the third-highest wind speed ever recorded in the Eastern Pacific.
The full impact of the hurricane on California remains uncertain, but coastal cities are preparing for large waves that could damage beaches and potentially flood homes or parking lots. The National Weather Service is forecasting elevated surf and powerful rip currents along Southern California beaches starting this weekend and continuing into next week as several southerly swells approach the coast.
Cities such as Long Beach and Newport Beach are working to rebuild sand barriers that were eroded by Hurricane Marie earlier this month, although some residents express concerns about completing the repairs in time for Hurricane Polo. Long Beach resident Charley Snyder stated, "Everything is not built back up again, so it’s a little nerve-wracking for sure."