Flash flooding in Southwest, overwhelming New Mexico dam on brink of failing

Hurricane Polo, a powerful Category 3 hurricane, was barreling towards Mexico's Baja California Sur state on September 28, threatening high winds, floods, and mudslides. The storm had maximum sustained winds near 115 mph (185 km/h) and was expected to make landfall later that day or early Tuesday morning. Residents stocked up on essentials like drinking water and food as the hurricane approached, while officials warned of life-threatening conditions due to heavy rainfall and potential flash flooding.

The storm forced evacuations in some areas, such as Puerto San Carlos, a fishing town with around 5,700 people, where residents feared seawater could breach barriers. Meanwhile, forecasters predicted Polo would dump between 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) of rain across Baja California Sur, raising the risk of life-threatening flooding and mudslides.

As Hurricane Nolo moved away from Hawaii, it still posed a threat with potential torrential rain. Mexican authorities urged residents to prepare for the imminent arrival of Hurricane Polo by unplugging electrical appliances and securing their homes against strong winds and heavy rains that could cause power outages. Local businesses boarded up doors and windows overnight in coastal cities like Loreto and Ciudad Constitucion, as worsening weather conditions hampered further preparations. Schools were ordered closed on Monday to ensure public safety.