Tropical Storm Karina has rapidly strengthened into a hurricane over the Pacific Ocean and is forecast to become a major hurricane within the next day or two, according to the National Hurricane Center. As of Sunday, Karina was a Category 1 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 80 mph. The storm is located approximately 880 miles west-southwest of the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, moving west-northwest at a slow pace of 9 mph.
Forecasters anticipate steady to rapid strengthening, with Karina expected to reach major hurricane status – Category 3 or greater – in approximately 24 hours. However, environmental conditions are projected to become less favorable for further intensification by Monday, which is expected to halt the storm's growth.
Despite its offshore location, Karina poses a direct hazard to coastal areas through dangerous ocean conditions. Swells generated by the hurricane will affect portions of the coast of southwest Mexico and the Baja California Peninsula over the next couple of days. These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions, prompting advisories for residents to consult local weather offices for specific product information.
In contrast to the Pacific, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts a quieter-than-usual hurricane season in the Atlantic. This is attributed to high wind shear driven by El Niño, with forecasts suggesting a total of 8 to 14 named storms. Of these, an estimated three to six are expected to reach hurricane strength, and one to three could potentially intensify into major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher. A typical Atlantic season typically sees 14 named storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes.