Major Hurricane Genevieve strengthened into the first Category 5 hurricane of the eastern Pacific season in two years before slightly weakening, while Hurricane Fausto continued tracking toward Hawaii, bringing dangerous surf and strong currents across the islands.
According to the US National Hurricane Center (NHC), Genevieve briefly reached Category 5 intensity early Monday with maximum sustained winds of 150 mph (240 km/h). Although the powerful storm remains far from land, forecasters warned that it will continue generating hazardous ocean conditions along Mexico’s Pacific coastline.
Genevieve Remains Offshore but Dangerous Swells Continue
As of Monday morning, the center of Hurricane Genevieve was located approximately 505 miles (815 kilometres) south-southwest of the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula.
The hurricane is moving northwest at around 13 mph (20 km/h) on a track expected to remain parallel to Mexico’s Pacific coast. No coastal hurricane watches or warnings have been issued because the storm is forecast to stay well offshore.
However, the National Hurricane Center warned that powerful swells generated by Genevieve are already reaching parts of southwestern Mexico and Baja California, creating life-threatening surf and dangerous rip current conditions for beachgoers.
Meteorologists expect Genevieve to fluctuate in strength before gradually weakening later this week as it moves over cooler waters.
Hurricane Fausto Brings High Surf to Hawaii
Meanwhile, Hurricane Fausto continues moving west-northwest across the Pacific as a Category 1 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds near 75 mph (120 km/h).
The storm was located about 505 miles (810 kilometres) east-northeast of Hilo, Hawaii, and travelling at 16 mph (26 km/h).
Although current forecasts indicate Fausto will pass north of the Hawaiian Islands, forecasters said residents should continue monitoring updates as changing weather patterns could still produce hazardous conditions.
Dangerous Ocean Conditions Expected
The National Hurricane Center said large waves and strong currents have already begun affecting Hawaii’s eastern shorelines.
Authorities warned that dangerous surf, powerful rip currents and rough coastal waters may continue over the coming days, urging swimmers and surfers to exercise extreme caution.
Emergency officials also advised residents and visitors to follow local weather alerts as conditions can change rapidly even when the centre of a hurricane remains well offshore.
Pacific Hurricane Season Remains Active
The simultaneous presence of two hurricanes highlights the continued activity across the eastern Pacific hurricane basin during the peak of the season.
While neither Genevieve nor Fausto currently poses a direct threat to populated areas, meteorologists continue to monitor both systems closely for any changes in track or intensity.
