Hurricane Rachel Intensifies to Category 3 Off Mexico's Pacific Coast

Why it matters locally: While Hurricane Rachel is off Mexico's coast, its development is being monitored due to potential indirect impacts on weather patterns in California, particularly given its proximity to the U.S. Southwest.

Hurricane Rachel reached Category 3 intensity off Mexico's Pacific coast. This upgrade places the storm at a significant level on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. The storm developed as northern Mexico and sections of the U.S. Southwest experienced flooding and damage. These impacts stemmed from the remnants of Hurricane Polo, which moved through the region earlier in the week.