Hurricane Milton Downgraded to Category 4: Risk Remains in Quintana Roo

Authorities have recently reported that Hurricane Milton, now downgraded to a Category 4, still poses a moderate threat to Quintana Roo. Despite the decrease in alert levels in some parts of the state, the hurricane could still bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to affected areas. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a 3 am report stating that the risk remains despite the lowered warnings.

Quintana Roo's Governor, Mara Lezama Espinosa, has been updating the public on the path of Hurricane Milton via social media. The most recent updates place the hurricane 100 kilometers north of Dzilam and 110 kilometers northwest of Río Lagartos, in Yucatán. The hurricane is maintaining sustained winds of up to 250 kilometers per hour, with gusts reaching up to 305 kilometers per hour. It is moving east-northeast at a speed of 19 kilometers per hour, creating hazardous conditions in several regions of southeastern Mexico.

Weather authorities have also warned that the hurricane's cloud bands will continue to impact northern Quintana Roo, Yucatán, and Campeche. These areas can expect heavy rainfall, accumulating between 75 and 150 mm in some places. Winds from 120 to 150 km/h and swells reaching between 4 and 6 meters high are expected along the coasts of northern Quintana Roo and Campeche. There is also a potential for waterspout formation.

With the hurricane weakening, several regions of Quintana Roo have seen a decrease in their alert levels:

• Yellow Alert (Moderate Danger): Benito Juárez, Isla Mujeres, Lázaro Cárdenas, Cozumel, and Puerto Morelos.
• Green Alert (Low Danger): Solidaridad, Tulum, Felipe Carrillo Puerto, and José María Morelos.
• Blue Alert (Minimal Danger): Bacalar and Othón P. Blanco.

Despite the lowered warnings, residents are still advised to stay informed through official channels and take necessary precautions.

In conclusion, authorities are urging the public to follow the #LaTripleA strategy: Attentive, Alert, and Safe, to minimize the risks associated with this hurricane season.