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Photo : National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Hurricane Flossie, a powerful storm off the Pacific coast of Mexico, has now grown into a Category 3 major hurricane, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC). This storm began as a tropical depression on June 29, 2025, and quickly turned into a strong hurricane in just a few days. It has now become one of the most powerful storms of the 2025 Pacific hurricane season so far.
As of July 2, Flossie is located about 340 kilometers (210 miles) southwest of Manzanillo, Mexico. It is moving in a west-northwest direction, which means it is traveling along the Mexican coastline but is expected to remain mostly offshore. Even though the center of the hurricane is out at sea, the effects of the storm can still be felt on land. The hurricane is pushing strong winds, very high waves, and heavy rain toward parts of the Mexican coast.
Flossie’s maximum sustained winds are now around 185 kilometers per hour (115 miles per hour). These strong winds are powerful enough to break trees, damage buildings, and create very dangerous conditions for boats and people near the shore. Experts say that the storm may continue to strengthen a little more before slowly weakening later this week, as it moves into cooler waters.
The areas most at risk from Flossie include the Mexican states of Michoacán, Colima, Jalisco, Guerrero, and Oaxaca. These states are already experiencing heavy rainfall, and some areas could receive up to 150 millimeters (6 inches) of rain. That much rain in a short amount of time can cause flooding, especially in towns, cities, and roads that can’t drain water fast enough. In the mountains, this rain can also trigger mudslides, which are very dangerous and can block roads or damage homes.
Because of the storm, the Mexican government has issued Tropical Storm Warnings for some coastal areas, including Punta San Telmo to Playa Perula. Other areas are under a watch, which means they could also be affected soon. People living in these areas are being told to stay informed, listen to local emergency officials, and prepare their homes and families in case the storm gets closer or stronger.
Authorities are also warning people to stay away from beaches during this time. Hurricane Flossie is causing huge waves and dangerous rip currents, which can easily pull swimmers out to sea. Even if the weather seems calm where you are, the ocean can still be rough and very unsafe.
Emergency workers are getting ready to help anyone who might need to leave their home or find a safe place to stay. Some towns may open shelters for families. People are being asked to gather emergency supplies such as bottled water, canned food, flashlights, batteries, and first-aid kits. It’s also important to charge phones, stay off flooded roads, and check on elderly neighbors or relatives who may need extra help.
Flossie’s quick growth shows just how powerful hurricanes can become when they form over warm ocean waters. Scientists say that climate change may be making these storms stronger and faster. That’s why it’s so important for communities to be ready and stay alert during hurricane season.
While Flossie is expected to weaken later this week, the damage it could cause before then is serious. People living in at-risk areas should follow all instructions from weather experts and local leaders to stay safe.