Hurricane Barbara: Tropical Storm Barbara has rapidly strengthened into the first hurricane of the 2025 Eastern Pacific hurricane season, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC). Located about 155 miles southwest of Manzanillo, Mexico, Barbara’s maximum sustained winds reached 75 mph as it moves northwest at 10 mph.
Though no coastal warnings are currently in effect, Barbara is expected to bring heavy rainfall and gusty winds to parts of southwestern Mexico, including Guerrero, Michoacan, Colima, and Jalisco. The NHC warns that life-threatening surf and rip currents will impact coastal areas over the next few days due to large swells generated by the hurricane.
Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Cosme is also developing farther offshore, about 630 miles south-southwest of Baja California. Cosme is expected to strengthen and near hurricane strength soon but is forecast to remain away from land.
The active start to the Eastern Pacific hurricane season contrasts sharply with the quieter Atlantic basin, which has yet to see its first named storm. Experts note this early activity is unusual compared to last year’s slow start. AccuWeather hurricane forecaster Alex DaSilva highlighted the potential for even more tropical storms to develop in the coming weeks.
Residents along Mexico’s southwestern coast should stay alert for updated weather advisories as the situation evolves. While Barbara is not expected to make landfall, its heavy rains and dangerous surf pose significant risks. The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season officially began over a week ago but remains calm due to unfavorable conditions like wind shear and Saharan dust.
The U.S. Gulf Coast and southeastern states should continue monitoring forecasts closely as the season progresses, though current activity remains focused in the Eastern Pacific basin. The Atlantic hurricane season continues through November 30, with experts anticipating a busy period ahead.