What's happened
Hurricane Gil, currently about 1,160 miles west-southwest of Baja California, is forecast to weaken into a post-tropical storm by Sunday. It has maximum sustained winds of 75 mph and is moving northwest. No land warnings are in effect. Meanwhile, other storms like Iona and Keli are tracked near Hawaii, but pose no immediate threat.
What's behind the headline?
The current storm activity highlights the ongoing volatility of the eastern Pacific hurricane season. Gil's forecasted weakening reflects typical storm life cycles over open water, but its initial strength of 75 mph indicates a significant system. The proximity of Iona and Keli to Hawaii underscores the importance of monitoring swell impacts, which can affect maritime activities and coastal safety even without direct landfall threats. The absence of warnings suggests that authorities consider the current risks manageable, but the season's activity signals a need for continued vigilance. This pattern of multiple storms forming and dissipating emphasizes the unpredictable nature of Pacific hurricane activity, which will likely persist in the coming weeks.
What the papers say
The AP News and The Independent provide consistent updates on Gil's position and strength, emphasizing its weakening trend and the lack of land warnings. Both sources note the activity of Iona and Keli near Hawaii, with Iona forecasted to strengthen before weakening midweek. The Independent offers detailed context about the storms' development and potential swell impacts, while AP News focuses on the storm's current status and forecast. The coverage aligns in presenting a cautious outlook, emphasizing open water activity and the importance of monitoring swell effects, but does not suggest immediate land threats. The articles collectively underscore the seasonal nature of Pacific storms and the importance of ongoing surveillance.
How we got here
Storm activity in the eastern Pacific has been active this week, with multiple systems forming and weakening over open waters. Hurricane Iona emerged from a tropical depression earlier this week and is tracking westward, while Keli remains further south near Hawaii. These storms are part of a busy season for the region, with no immediate land threats but potential swell impacts.
Go deeper
Common question
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What’s the Latest on Hawaii’s Tropical Storms Iona and Keli?
Hawaii is currently monitoring two tropical systems: Hurricane Iona and Tropical Storm Keli. While Iona is forecasted to weaken, it’s still a significant storm approaching the islands, and Keli is bringing small swells that could impact the coast. If you're in Hawaii or planning to visit, understanding these storms' current status and potential impacts is crucial. Below, we answer common questions about these weather events to keep you informed and prepared.
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Which Regions Are Most at Risk from Severe Storms and Floods Now?
Recent headlines highlight the increasing frequency of extreme weather events worldwide, from severe storms in New York, Hong Kong, and the UK to tropical cyclones near Shanghai and active storms in the Pacific. Many regions are facing heightened flood risks and unpredictable weather patterns. Curious about where the danger is greatest and how to stay safe? Below, we answer common questions about current weather threats and what you can do to prepare.
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Are Pacific Storms Dangerous Now? What You Need to Know
With multiple storms active in the eastern and central Pacific, many people are wondering if these weather systems pose a threat to Hawaii and surrounding areas. While no warnings are currently in effect, the development of storms like Hurricane Iona and Tropical Storm Keli has raised questions about potential impacts. Here’s what you need to know about the current Pacific storms and how they might affect you.
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