Hurricane John Strikes Mexico, Causes Fatalities

Hurricane John rapidly intensified from a tropical storm to a Category 3 hurricane, striking southern Mexico’s coast near Marquelia in Guerrero on Monday evening with peak winds of 120 mph. The sudden intensification caught scientists and authorities by surprise, reminiscent of Hurricane Otis's rapid escalation last year. The storm caused at least two fatalities due to a mudslide and severe flooding, with the U.S. National Hurricane Center warning of potentially catastrophic, life-threatening flash floods and mudslides in several states, including Chiapas, Oaxaca, and Guerrero. Although Hurricane John weakened back to a tropical storm by Tuesday morning, heavy rains and strong winds continue to batter the region, posing ongoing risks. Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador urged residents to prioritize safety over material possessions and seek higher ground.