Urgent warnings have been issued for Tamaulipas, Mexico, and New Mexico, USA, due to an approaching cyclone and severe wildfires respectively, leading to evacuations, destruction, and emergency declarations. Travel advisories and safety measures are in place as authorities monitor the situations closely.
Cyclone and Wildfires: Urgent Warnings for Mexico and the US
Tamaulipas, Mexico:
The Foreign Office has issued an urgent travel warning for Tamaulipas, Mexico, as a potentially dangerous cyclone, dubbed Potential Tropical Cyclone One, is approaching the northeastern coast. The cyclone is anticipated to escalate to a tropical storm by June 19 and is predicted to make landfall on June 20. High winds, heavy rainfall, and coastal flooding are expected, with potential landslides in some regions. Travelers are advised to avoid non-essential travel, as insurance may be invalidated if traveling against the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advice.
New Mexico, USA:
On June 18, a severe wildfire swept through the mountain village of Ruidoso in southern New Mexico, destroying or damaging hundreds of structures and prompting the evacuation of thousands of residents. At least one fatality and two injuries have been reported. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a state of emergency and deployed additional National Guard troops. The South Fork Fire and Salt Fire have collectively consumed over 20,500 acres. Evacuation orders remain active in parts of Lincoln County and the Mescalero Apache Reservation, with weather conditions posing further risks to the affected areas. Emergency shelters have been set up, and efforts to rescue animals and support evacuees are ongoing.
Further updates will be provided as the situations develop.