Hurricane Hilary is rapidly intensifying, and forecasters are warning that it could bring heavy rain, flooding and high winds to California, Nevada and Arizona this weekend.
The storm formed on Wednesday off the coast of Mexico, and it has already strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane. It is expected to continue to intensify and reach Category 3 status by Friday.
Hilary is forecast to make landfall in Southern California on Saturday, and it could bring up to 10 inches of rain to some areas. The storm could also produce flooding and mudslides, especially in areas that have been burned by wildfires in recent years.
In addition to the rain, Hilary is also expected to bring high winds. The storm could produce gusts of up to 75 mph, which could down trees and power lines.
Officials in California, Nevada and Arizona are urging residents to prepare for the storm. They are advising people to have a plan in place in case of power outages or flooding.
Here are some tips for preparing for Hurricane Hilary:
* Make sure you have a battery-powered radio so you can stay informed about the storm.
* Have a plan for where you will go if you need to evacuate.
* Fill up your gas tank and stock up on food and water.
* Secure loose objects around your property, such as lawn furniture and trash cans.
* Bring in outdoor pets and livestock.
Hurricane Hilary is a dangerous storm, and it is important to take precautions to stay safe. By following these tips, you can help protect yourself and your family from the storm.
In addition to the physical damage that Hurricane Hilary could cause, it could also have a significant impact on the economy of the Southwest. The storm could disrupt transportation and commerce, and it could also lead to power outages and business closures.
The full extent of the damage caused by Hurricane Hilary is not yet known, but it is likely to be significant. Residents of California, Nevada and Arizona should stay tuned to local news and weather reports for the latest updates on the storm.