Get ready for some serious weather! Tropical Storm Barbara is rapidly gaining strength off the Pacific coast of Mexico and could become a full-blown hurricane as early as Monday. According to the National Hurricane Center in Miami, the storm is currently located approximately 235 miles (375 kilometers) west-southwest of the popular tourist destination, Zihuatanejo, in Guerrero state.

As of late Sunday, Barbara boasts maximum sustained winds of an impressive 65 mph (100 kph), moving west-northwest at a steady 10 mph (17 kph). While forecasters predict the storm will remain offshore, significant rainfall is expected along Mexico’s western coast. This poses a considerable risk of localized flooding and potentially dangerous mudslides.

Be aware that areas such as Guerrero, Michoacan, Colima, and Jalisco states could see substantial rainfall accumulation. Expect 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 centimeters) of rain through Monday. Stay tuned for updates and heed all official weather warnings.