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Tropical Storm Ian developed into a hurricane this morning and is currently on track for Cuba. Authorities have issued a weather alert for Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean state of Quintana Roo as tropical storm Ian approaches the area. Though the storm has evolved into Hurricane Ian since the issuance of the first “blue alert”, authorities maintain that Quintana Roo remains under the blue alert. The storm is forecast to gradually move north some 350 kilometers off the coast of Cancun, and although it won’t make landfall there, heavy rain, strong winds, and thunder are expected across much of the region over the next 48 to 72 hours.
A blue alert is the lowest warning in the state’s 5-scale weather alert and has been issued for Quintana Roo as Hurricane Ian strengthens off the Caribbean coast. The storm is currently around 590 kilometers east of the state, according to a recent bulletin posted by the National Hurricane Centre in Florida, as well as the National Meteorological Service.
The Hurricane is projected to gradually move along the Mexican Caribbean coastline towards Cuba at a speed of 22 kilometers per hour before making landfall in Florida. Although Ian will not directly impact Cancun, the storm is forecast to cause heavy rain and wind, prompting authorities to issue a weather alert. The area has been put under a blue storm warning, meaning residents and visitors should exercise increased caution and follow weather updates, although no imminent threat is on the horizon.
With sustained winds of up to 120 kilometers per hour and heavy precipitation, authorities along the storm’s path are keeping a close eye on weather conditions. The strongest meteorological effects will be felt across the state on Monday and Tuesday, with forecasts indicating localized downpours and strong gusts of wind of up to 60-70 kilometers per hour. The heaviest precipitation is forecast to hit northern parts of the state, including Cancun, Holbox, and the Riviera Maya.
On Tuesday, the Hurricane is forecast to move north along the Caribbean only some 345 kilometers off the coast of Cancun, at which point it is expected to increase in strength. However, the Hurricane’s effects in Cancun will gradually diminish throughout Tuesday as it makes its way toward Cuba and Florida.
Meanwhile, the blue weather alert is also in effect across many popular resort destinations in the Mexican Caribbean, including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Isla Mujeres. Local authorities, as well as hotels and resorts, have tropical storm and hurricane protocols in place to keep visitors safe, and tourists are being advised to take precautions and to follow officials’ instructions.
There is also a high likelihood of thunderstorms across much of the Mexican Caribbean, and people are urged to avoid getting close to the sea or large bodies of water that may quickly flood.
Quintana Roo relies on a 5-level color-coded weather alert system. For now, authorities have placed the state on blue alert, the lowest warning level. As a result, authorities are warning about toppled trees, power lines, as well as localized flooding. Residents and visitors are being told to closely follow weather updates, as well as to follow instructions given by authorities.
The Atlantic hurricane season began in June and lasts until the end of November. Quintana Roo is rarely directly hit by powerful hurricanes, although tropical storms are a common occurrence. Last week, hurricane Fiona caused significant damage across many Caribbean destinations, such as the Dominican Republic, but Quintana Roo wasn’t in the vicinity of the powerful hurricane.
The following weeks are especially likely to see tropical storms forming over the Atlantic, which may strengthen to hurricane level. Tourists are advised to let their nearest Embassy or consulate know that they are in the area and to take precautions during stormy weather, such as staying indoors as much as possible.
Hotels and resorts in the area are well-prepared for potentially catastrophic weather conditions. They regularly update their weather safety protocols, which include aspects such as evacuations and temporary shelters.
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