In the coming days, Hurricane Hilary has the potential to affect travel plans along the Baja California peninsula and into the southwestern United States. As this storm gains strength, it could lead to changes in travel schedules and conditions, particularly for destinations such as Baja California, Baja California Sur, Southern California, Nevada, and western Arizona.
Hurricane Hilary’s Intensification and Path:
Hilary, originally a tropical storm, has intensified into a Category 1 hurricane in the eastern Pacific Ocean. With maximum sustained winds of 85 mph, the hurricane is located approximately 550 miles south-southeast of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Forecasters predict that the storm could reach Category 4 strength, with sustained winds of up to 130 mph, as it progresses northward. As Hilary advances, the risk of flash flooding and other severe weather events along its path has prompted officials to issue warnings.
Potential Impacts on Travel:
Authorities are particularly concerned about the potential for flash flooding and landslides in areas such as Baja California, Baja California Sur, Southern California, Nevada, and western Arizona. The National Hurricane Center has already cautioned about the likelihood of heavy rainfall causing these disruptions. The impacts are expected to peak over the weekend and into Monday, affecting various destinations along the storm’s trajectory.
Travel Alert and Flexibility:
In light of the anticipated disruptions, American Airlines has taken proactive measures to assist travelers. The airline has issued a travel alert for passengers flying into, out of, or through Los Cabos. Customers who have booked their flights by Wednesday, August 16, and are scheduled to travel over the weekend of August 19-20, 2023, or within the period of August 17-22, 2023, can make changes to their itineraries without incurring change fees. Travelers must complete the booking of the modified itinerary by Sunday, August 20, and the travel itself must be undertaken within a year of the original ticket date.
Stay Informed and Prepared:
As Hurricane Hilary’s impact continues to develop, it is advisable for all travelers to stay informed about the situation. Other airlines may also adopt similar measures if the storm’s intensity escalates further. To avoid any inconveniences, travelers are strongly recommended to verify their flight statuses with their respective airlines before heading to the airport. Staying updated and prepared is essential to ensuring a safe and smooth travel experience.
With the potential for Hurricane Hilary to disrupt travel plans in the Baja California peninsula and the southwestern U.S., travelers should remain vigilant and adaptable in the face of changing weather conditions. By staying informed, taking advantage of travel alerts, and checking flight statuses, individuals can navigate potential disruptions with greater ease and safety. Need information how to protect yourself from a hurricane
The Cabo Magazine will keep you updated on on the latest news
Join The Our Facebook Community
THE CABO MAGAZINE Facebook has all the latest travel news, conversations and current events happening in Los Cabos