Tropical Storm Arlene forms in southwestern Gulf
MIAMI, FL
Tropical Storm Arlene could hit land north of the coastal city
of Tuxpan early Thursday a little short of hurricane force,
according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami. Officials
in the states of Veracruz, Tamaulipas and San Luis Potosi said they
were monitoring the storm and preparing for possible flooding.
The state oil company Petroleos Mexicanos, said it would
consider whether to evacuate its oil platforms off the Veracruz
coast later Wednesday.
By early afternoon, the hurricane center said the storm was
centered about 95 miles (155 kilometers) east of Tuxpan, with
sustained winds of 50 mph (85 kph). It was moving toward the west
at 8 mph (13 kph).
The Mexican government shifted its tropical storm warning south,
from the fishing village of La Pesca to Palma Sola. A hurricane
watch was also in effect from the tourist zone of Barra de Nautla
to La Cruz.
Rain was falling along Mexico's Gulf coast ahead of the storm,
and officials warned residents about impending winds and rain.
Officials said 6 inches (150 millimeters) of rain were possible in
northern Veracruz state.
The main threat to Mexico comes from heavy rains that could
cause flash floods and mudslides in 13 states, the government said.
Forecasters say extreme south Texas also could get rain.
If heavy rains come to the state of Tamaulipas, they will fall
on soil dried out by the most severe drought to hit the area in 50
years. There is still unrepaired damage from Hurricane Alex, which
struck the area Category 2 hurricane last year.
Keep your family safe this hurricane season. Check our complete tropical weather preparation guide
