This bulletin is being issued for information only, and reflects the current situation and details available at this time. The Mexican Red Cross, with the support of the Federation, has determined that external assistance is not required, and is therefore not seeking funding or other assistance from donors at this time.
The Government of Mexico has issued a hurricane warning and preparatory activities are being carried out for the imminent approach of Hurricane Jimena. From a category 3 yesterday, Jimena has now weakened to a category 2 hurricane on the five step Saffir-Simpson Scale, but remains extremely dangerous. Jimena is expected to make landfall within 24 hours as of 8.00 hours this morning, possibly affecting more than 20,000 families.
The Situation
Hurricane Jimena is moving in a north to north-westward direction at a speed of approximately 13 mph; on this course, the core of Jimena will be near the west coast of the southern Baja California Peninsual today, 2 September. The hurricane is expected to deposit 5 to 10 inches of rain over half of the southern coast of Baja California and also parts of western Mexico which could produce life-threatening flash floods and mud slides. The coordinating office for the General Civil Protection has alerted of the expected rainfall and has also advised of the possible severe winds and storm surges that may accompany Jimena. Emergency workers from the Civil Protection have assisted with the evacuation process in the areas at most risk. On the morning of 1 September, 1,200 persons had been evacuated to shelters in the town of Los Cabos in Baja California Sur; also, in La Paz, the government has identified 159 shelters to accommodate 6,000 vulnerable families who live in high risk areas. The Civil Protection today, 2 September, issued a second emergency declaration for Baja California, in particular for the municipalities of Loreto and Mulegé. The Mexican authorities will be able to access the Fund for Natural Disasters of the Mexican Civil Protection in the event of needs for food, shelter and health issues.