Hurricane Hilary Approaches California, Southern Tip on Tropical Storm Watch for First Time in State's History

The National Hurricane Center in the United States has issued a tropical storm watch for the southern tip of California as Hurricane Hilary approaches. This is the first time in California's history that a tropical storm watch has been issued, highlighting the rarity of such an event in the state.

California, despite its long coastline, has not seen a tropical storm strike in nearly 84 years. Currently a powerful Category 4 storm, Hilary is also set to hit Mexico's Baja California peninsula, where a hurricane warning has been issued.

The cyclone has rapidly strengthened, with sustained winds of 230km/h (145mph) and some gusts even higher. The government of Baja California has responded by suspending classes, postponing sporting events, and closing ports to small-vessel traffic.

The state governor has also urged residents in vulnerable areas to seek shelter elsewhere. The hurricane warning extends along the Baja California peninsula from Punta Abreojos to Punta Eugenia. This area is known for its wildlife refuge and fishing towns, and coastal waves have already reached heights of up to 7 meters (23ft).

However, the hurricane is projected to continue northwards to more densely populated areas. The US National Hurricane Center has warned of possible flash flooding and a dangerous storm surge with large and destructive waves.

By Sunday, Hurricane Hilary is expected to weaken to tropical-storm strength. Nevertheless, California cities like San Diego and Los Angeles are preparing for heavy rains and winds, with isolated areas expected to receive up to 25cm (10 inches) of rain. The National Hurricane Center has warned of rare and dangerous flooding in these areas.

California has a relatively sparse history with tropical storm systems due to cold currents traveling south along its coast, which make conditions unfavorable for tropical storms. The last time a tropical storm made landfall in California was in September 1939, resulting in flooding and a high death toll.

However, in recent years, California has experienced remnants of cyclones that brought bands of rain into the state. This unusual occurrence of a tropical storm watch and potential impact in California can be attributed to various factors. The El Niño climate pattern, which is currently showing signs of strengthening, is causing warmer than normal waters in the tropical Pacific and increased storm activity.

Additionally, the presence of a heat dome over much of the country is pushing the storm northward into California. While the primary concern with tropical storms is usually water-related hazards such as flash flooding, storm surge, and heavy rainfall, California's dry areas also face the risk of mudslides.

Areas recovering from wildfires are particularly vulnerable to mudslides triggered by heavy downpours. As the situation continues to evolve, those in the path of Hurricane Hilary should refer to their local weather offices for additional information.