Hurricane Barbara: Two storm fronts collide as 17 million people brace for impact in Mexico
Two massive storm fronts are wreaking havoc off the coast of Mexico as over 17 million people brace for the first hurricane of the 2025 season.
The double-trouble weather events have increased in ferocity as the eastern Pacific region prepares for the impact from Hurricane Barbara, which formed into a minimal category 1 system with winds of around 120 km/h, and another storm called Cosme also gathered momentum in the same area.
The US National Hurricane Centre said Barbara is moving along the southwestern region of Mexico, about 155 miles southwest of Manzanillo.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The Mexican coastline has been battered by huge swells with holidaymakers caught unawares as the ocean surged and created massive waves along resort strips in Acapulco after another storm front, christened Alvin, landed only days ahead of Barbara and Cosme.
The NHC predicted up to four inches of rain for Guerrero, Michoacan, Colima and Jalisco throughout Monday and warned that flooding and mudslides are possible.
Tropical Storm Cosme formed on Sunday afternoon (local time), and is producing 100kmh just short of the figure needed to be deemed a hurricane.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting an “above-average” Atlantic, pacific hurricane season, with officials expected to name more storms than in 2024, when 18 were recorded.
This year, NOAA forecasts up to 19 named storms, 10 hurricanes and five major hurricanes are expected to hammer the region.
“We’ve got to convince people of the danger,” said Ken Graham, director of NOAA’s National Weather Service.
“Every Category 5 hurricane that has ever hit this country was a tropical storm or less just three days prior.”
Graham urged residents to prepare early by stocking up on essentials like gas, water and emergency supplies before long lines form in a real crisis.
Last year, the US was battered by some of the worst storms in history, including hurricanes Helene and Milton, which caused an estimated $US500 billion in damage.
The NHC noted that approximately 400 people died during 2024’s hurricane season, the deadliest season since 2005.
