Hurricane Polo has maintained Category 5 strength off Mexico's southwestern Pacific coast, with forecasters warning that the extremely dangerous storm could trigger life-threatening flooding, mudslides and hazardous surf despite remaining offshore.

According to the US National Hurricane Center (NHC), Polo is producing maximum sustained winds of around 270 kilometres per hour (165 mph), while its minimum central pressure has risen to 905 millibars. The hurricane is moving very slowly off the coasts of Guerrero and Michoacán, and although its core is not currently expected to make landfall, even a slight shift in its track could significantly alter coastal impacts.

Dangerous flooding threat remains

The NHC forecasts that Polo will remain a major hurricane for the next several days before gradually weakening over cooler waters. Heavy rainfall of 100 to 200 millimetres, with isolated totals of up to 300 millimetres, is expected across parts of Guerrero and Michoacán, creating a high risk of flash floods and landslides. Dangerous surf, powerful rip currents and large waves are also expected along Mexico's Pacific coastline.

The NHC advised residents in affected areas to closely monitor official forecasts and heed instructions issued by emergency authorities as hazardous weather conditions continue.

One of the fastest intensifying Pacific hurricanes

Meteorologists said Polo underwent an extraordinary period of rapid intensification, strengthening from a tropical storm into a Category 5 hurricane in roughly 36 hours—a pace that could rank among the fastest ever recorded in the eastern Pacific if confirmed after the season. Forecasters attributed the explosive strengthening to exceptionally warm ocean waters, abundant tropical moisture and very low wind shear.

Although Polo is forecast to remain offshore, its broad circulation is expected to continue generating dangerous weather conditions along Mexico's southwestern coast over the coming days.(ILKHA)