Tropical Storm Andres threatens SW Mexican coast

The first named storm of the eastern Pacific hurricane season formed off the southwestern coast this weekend. Projections are for TS Andres to head northwestward away from land but forecasters do not know if this storm will make landfall before turning out to sea. With the current position of this storm the coast is certain to get a fair amount of rain.

ACAPULCO, Mexico (AP) — Tropical Storm Andres strengthened off the southwestern coast of Mexico on Monday, prompting emergency preparations for a storm that forecasters said might become a hurricane in coming days.

It was too soon to tell if Andres would make landfall, but a tropical storm watch was issued from Zihuatanejo northward to Manzanillo, meaning that tropical storm conditions were possible in the next day or two.

The Acapulco city government prepared 120 shelters and warned residents to stay indoors, especially some 15,000 people in 20 zones most at risk for flooding. Heavy rains late Sunday downed a few trees in the resort city. (USA Today)

A tropical storm warning may be issued later in the day. Andres may reach hurricane strength as it skirts along the Mexican coast. Then, depending on how the storm track changes, the southern tip of baja California may also recieve a direct hit in a few days.