Mexico has entered a state of emergency as category five Hurricane Patricia prepares to make landfall today.
The storm, which is expected to hit near the port of Manzanillo on the Pacific coast, has been described as ‘potentially catastrophic’ with winds of up to 160mph.
Officials have warned locals and foreigners to prepare for flooding as steady rain began to fall around the port this afternoon.
So far, no evacuation has been issued, however, schools have been closed in Colima state, which is home to Manzanillo, and a few domestic flights have been delayed.
Absolutely insane wind field in #Patricia. Very nervous for residents of Mexico in the path of this storm. pic.twitter.com/lKlTyAp9A0
— Becky Elliott (@AccuWxBeck) October 23, 2015
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has warned travellers of potential impacts to communication and transportation during the storm.
“Hurricane conditions, including excessive rainfall, violent winds, and storm surges may cause flash flooding and landslides, which may lead to transportation and communications problems.”
DFAT
Travellers have also been advised to be wary of any affect to emergency and medical care as well as water and food supplies.
DFAT has urged Australians in Mexico to keep an eye on the local news, weather reports and to follow advice from local authorities.
Meanwhile, a worker at Las Hadas Hotel, Gabriel Lopez, told The Guardian that locals are remaining calm and they’re willing to take care of people in extreme cases.
“If there is an emergency we will take care of the people. There are rooms that are not exposed to wind or glass.”
Gabriel Lopez, Las Hadas Hotel Worker
This page will be updated as more information comes to hand.
