Tropical disturbance threatens Southern California coast

Meteorologists are monitoring a tropical disturbance, identified as Invest EP95, located southwest of Mexico that has a high probability of developing into a tropical depression or hurricane. While current models suggest the system may remain over open waters, some forecasts indicate a potential turn toward the north, which could bring tropical effects to Southern California and Baja California during the Labor Day weekend.

Warm ocean temperatures in the Pacific, which are currently 5 to 10 degrees above normal, are providing fuel for the system. This warming is linked to a marine heat wave and El Niño conditions. If the system approaches the coast, it could bring increased humidity, heavy rainfall, flooding, and mudslide risks to areas such as Orange County. Although direct tropical landfalls in California are rare, the remnants of Hurricane Hilary in 2023 previously caused significant damage in the region.