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

Why it matters locally: While Hurricane Rachel is currently off Mexico's Pacific Coast, its rapid intensification serves as a reminder of the potential for powerful storms, a topic of ongoing relevance for Florida residents given the state's own hurricane season.

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.