Two storms in the Pacific—Hurricane Kiko and Tropical Storm Lorena—are being closely monitored for potential impacts to the U.S., including flooding rains, rip currents, and high surf.

Lorena Brings Flooding Risk to the Southwest

Once a hurricane, Tropical Storm Lorena is now tracking toward northwestern Mexico. Its remnants could dump heavy rain across the U.S. Southwest Friday and Saturday, with Arizona, Phoenix, and Tucson under flood watches. Some areas could see 1–2 inches of rain per hour.

The Baja California Peninsula could see up to 8 inches of rain, plus dangerous surf and rip currents over the next few days.

Hurricane Kiko Nears Hawaii

Farther out in the Pacific, Hurricane Kiko has reached Category 4 strength about 1,500 miles east of Hawaii. The storm is expected to weaken as it moves into cooler waters, but it could still bring 70 mph wind gusts, heavy rain, and high surf to Hawaii by Tuesday or Wednesday.

A Busy Hurricane Season

These storms follow Hurricane Erin, which recently battered North Carolina’s Outer Banks, and come during what forecasters say will be an above-normal hurricane season.

Tips for Houstonians

While these Pacific storms are not forecast to hit Texas, they’re a reminder that hurricane season is still active through Nov. 30. Houstonians should:

• Keep hurricane kits stocked with food, water, and flashlights.
• Review evacuation routes, even if you live inland.
• Sign up for local alerts through ReadyHarris or your county’s emergency system.

For more hurricane preparedness information, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.