PUERTO VALLARTA, Mexico – Authorities in Puerto Vallarta are on high alert as Hurricane Trudy, currently a Category 1 storm, approaches the coast of Jalisco. While emergency protocols have not yet been activated, officials warned of significant impacts on sea swells, tides, winds, and rainfall, leading to the closure of local beaches for the upcoming weekend.
During a permanent session of the Civil Protection Council on Saturday morning, the Scientific Committee and operational areas met to provide updates on the storm’s trajectory. Experts noted that while the hurricane remains far from the port, its wide circulation could generate adverse meteorological conditions in the coming hours.
Meteorologist Víctor Manuel López Cornejo warned that due to the El Niño phenomenon and global warming, storm trajectories have become increasingly erratic, citing the recent path of Hurricane Simon as a prime example.
While cloudy skies and rain are expected throughout Saturday, these conditions may be accompanied by significant wind and heavy swells—primarily along the coastline—starting from Sunday afternoon.
According to the forecast, Trudy is expected to maintain a passing trajectory, meaning the most intense part of the cyclone will remain at sea. However, officials emphasized that indirect effects could pose risks to the population. A primary concern is the possibility of intense rainfall in mountainous areas, which could lead to sudden surges in river and creek levels.
“That is always very dangerous,” the meteorologist emphasized regarding the risk of flash floods.
In response, the Director of Civil Protection and Firefighters, Misael López Muro, announced that a command center will be established at the department’s headquarters on Las Américas Street starting this Saturday at noon.
Mayor Luis Ernesto Munguia González also urged citizens to avoid sea activities and minimize risks, particularly as the coastline faces deteriorating conditions. Consequently, the beaches of this major tourist destination will remain closed throughout the weekend.
Authorities from all three levels of government continue to monitor the phenomenon closely and are urging the public to stay informed through official channels and to follow all instructions from Civil Protection during the next few hours.