Tropical Storm Barbara threatens hurricane off Mexico
- Tropical Storm Barbara formed off the southwestern coast of Mexico and was expected to strengthen into a hurricane.
- Rainfall of 2-4 inches was predicted for various Mexican states, creating risks for flooding and mudslides.
- As the first storm of the Eastern Pacific season, Barbara poses significant threats despite not immediately threatening land.
In early June 2025, Tropical Storm Barbara developed off the southwestern coast of Mexico, specifically around 180 miles south-southwest of Zihuatanejo. The storm's winds reached maximum sustained speeds of up to 70 mph as it moved west-northwest at approximately 12 mph. The U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) indicated that Barbara was forecasted to strengthen into a hurricane on Monday while raising concerns about potential flooding and mudslides in several Mexican states, including Guerrero, Michoacan, Colima, and Jalisco due to anticipated rainfall totals of 2-4 inches. As Barbara advanced, the NHC highlighted the risk of life-threatening rip currents and dangerous surf conditions along local beaches caused by large waves generated by the storm. No coastal watches or warnings were immediately issued, but the potential for the storm to become the first hurricane of the Eastern Pacific season prompted heightened awareness among coastal residents and tourists. The forecast also pointed to eventual weakening of Barbara by Tuesday when it might turn more west and lessen in strength while still threatening rain-induced hazards. Another area of weather development, dubbed Invest 91E, was observed further offshore, with the potential to achieve tropical storm status as well, leading to possible additional storm threats in the coming days. Rainfall from both storms was expected to tax infrastructure and could lead to localized flooding, particularly given the vulnerability of the terrain in the affected states. While the NHC carried a prediction of an above-normal hurricane season overall, with estimates of 13 to 19 named storms, the emergence of Barbara set a critical early precedent for the 2025 season in the Eastern Pacific. As of the current reports, the tropical storm had not made landfall and its trajectory suggested it might remain offshore. However, continued monitoring by the NHC was vital due to the dynamic nature of tropical storms and the potential for sudden changes. Communication from the NHC and local governments was encouraged to inform populations of any developments in storm strength, trajectory, or imminent impacts on coastal safety and preparedness measures.