Mexico has now joined the list of countries affected by hurricanes and cyclones, including the US, Canada, Bermuda, Spain, Haiti, and India. This update comes as Hurricane Priscilla, Tropical Storm Jerry, and Cyclone Shakti cause severe disruption across multiple regions. Priscilla, currently battering Mexico, is bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and rough surf to coastal areas, especially in Baja California. Meanwhile, Jerry is threatening the Caribbean, and Cyclone Shakti is impacting parts of India and the surrounding regions. As these powerful storms intensify, they pose significant risks to tourism, infrastructure, and local economies. With each storm causing damage to property and livelihoods, the international community is on high alert, working to provide aid and ensure the safety of residents and tourists. The ongoing storm season highlights the urgent need for preparedness and resilience, as countries across the globe face the destructive forces of nature.
The 2025 hurricane season has brought powerful storms to many countries, leaving a trail of destruction and disrupting the lives of millions. Countries like Mexico, the Philippines, and Vietnam have experienced severe weather, including hurricanes and tropical storms. The intense storms, such as Hurricane Priscilla and Typhoon Bualoi, have led to floods, strong winds, and landslides, damaging infrastructure and local economies. Tourism in these affected regions has taken a serious hit, with many resorts and attractions forced to close due to the storms. This article looks at the countries impacted by these storms, the damage caused, and how the tourism industry is coping with the aftermath.
Hurricane Priscilla: Mexico Faces Major Disruption
Hurricane Priscilla has made a significant impact on Western Mexico, particularly along the Pacific Coast and Baja California peninsula. The storm, which started off the coast, brought heavy rain, strong winds, and life-threatening surf to the region. The tropical storm watch issued for Baja California Sur warned of severe weather, with areas such as Cabo San Lucas and Manzanillo at risk of flooding and storm surges. The heavy rains from Priscilla's outer bands could bring up to 6 inches (15 centimetres) of water, increasing the likelihood of flash flooding in key tourist destinations like Michoacán and Colima. Swells from the hurricane have already reached the Mexican coastline, creating dangerous surf and rip currents.
For the tourism industry in Mexico, this is a big concern. Popular coastal resorts, especially those in Baja California, rely heavily on beachgoers and tourists who come for the sunshine and warm waters. With Priscilla's unpredictable path and intense weather, tourist activities such as water sports and excursions were forced to cancel. Additionally, the storm has disrupted travel plans for thousands of holidaymakers, as flights were delayed and airport operations halted due to dangerous conditions.
The Philippines: Typhoon Bualoi Brings Devastation
In the Philippines, Typhoon Bualoi caused widespread damage, particularly in the provinces of Biliran and Leyte. This storm brought strong winds, torrential rain, and landslides, which led to loss of life and severe infrastructure damage. Bualoi's path left many people trapped in floodwaters, and homes, schools, and businesses were severely affected. More than 11 lives were lost as the typhoon's destructive power ripped through communities, leaving families displaced and in need of emergency support.
For the Philippines, a country that heavily depends on tourism, the typhoon's impact is devastating. Popular tourist spots in places like Palawan, Cebu, and Boracay experienced heavy rain and floodwater, which led to the closure of resorts and attractions. Flights were cancelled, and ferries were not operating due to dangerous seas. As one of the top travel destinations in Southeast Asia, the Philippines' tourism sector was already recovering from previous storms, and this new challenge puts its growth at risk.
Vietnam: Typhoon Bualoi Also Affects Southeast Asia
Vietnam too was hit hard by Typhoon Bualoi, which made its way through the country's central and northern regions. The typhoon caused severe flooding, particularly in Hanoi, where roads became submerged, and many areas were left without power. The damage to infrastructure has been extensive, and parts of the country are now in recovery mode, with businesses and schools forced to close for days at a time.
Vietnam is a major player in the Southeast Asian tourism industry, and the impact of Typhoon Bualoi has dealt a heavy blow. Popular tourist destinations like Ha Long Bay, Hue, and Hoi An saw disruptions, with tourists stranded and their travel plans ruined. The floodwaters made it difficult for tourists to enjoy local attractions, and the necessary recovery efforts will take time. As the government works to rebuild, tourism operators are hoping to reopen as soon as possible, but the damage to the infrastructure will have long-term effects on the country's economy.
Mexico and the Pacific Coast: Double Trouble from Priscilla and Octave
While Hurricane Priscilla is still wreaking havoc in Mexico, a second storm, Tropical Storm Octave, was also causing concern. Although Octave weakened as it moved westward, it posed a threat to coastal areas, with winds and rain reaching parts of Baja California. Fortunately, Octave didn't cause major damage, but its close proximity to the already affected areas added to the chaos. The possibility of storms coming in quick succession can overwhelm emergency services and delay recovery, making it harder for the tourism industry to get back on track.
Despite Octave weakening, Priscilla remains the bigger concern, especially for the southern Pacific coast of Mexico. The combination of these two storms, along with already existing flood risks, highlights the growing concerns of hurricane seasons becoming more unpredictable and dangerous for coastal nations that rely on tourism for income.
The Caribbean: Threats from Hurricane Kiko and Gabrielle
The Caribbean is no stranger to hurricanes and tropical storms, and the 2025 season has been no exception. Hurricane Kiko, which struck in September, caused major damage to the island of Puerto Rico. Widespread flooding and wind damage forced hotels, resorts, and businesses to close, halting tourism during one of the busiest times of the year. The storm also affected the neighbouring islands, with power outages and infrastructure damage making it difficult to recover. Many holidaymakers were left stranded, and many others had to cancel their plans.
In addition to Kiko, Tropical Storm Gabrielle made its mark, moving quickly through the Caribbean, bringing heavy rains and rough seas to the region. The quick succession of these storms made it hard for the tourism sector to prepare, and recovery efforts are ongoing.
Impact of Typhoons and Hurricanes on Tourism Sectors Worldwide
Hurricanes and typhoons not only cause physical damage but also disrupt the vital tourism sectors in the affected regions. Countries like Mexico, the Philippines, and Vietnam, which heavily depend on the tourism industry, face serious setbacks as these storms wreak havoc. Local businesses, particularly hotels, resorts, airlines, and restaurants, are forced to close or operate at limited capacity, impacting the overall economy.
In addition, flights are often delayed or cancelled due to severe weather, causing frustration and confusion for travellers. The immediate impact is clear, but the long-term recovery from these natural disasters is challenging. While some regions may recover quickly, others may take years to rebuild and restore their tourism infrastructure to pre-storm levels. This creates uncertainty for tourists, who may hesitate to visit regions affected by storms in future seasons.
Cyclone Shakti, the first severe cyclonic storm of the 2025 season over the Arabian Sea, formed in early October. As of October 6, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the cyclone was located approximately 180 km southeast of Masirah, Oman, and was moving west-southwest at 13 km/h. The storm is expected to weaken into a depression by October 7.
Despite its weakening, Cyclone Shakti has impacted coastal regions of India, particularly Maharashtra and Gujarat. The IMD issued warnings for rough sea conditions and strong winds, advising fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea. Coastal areas experienced light to moderate rainfall, with some regions like Konkan, Marathwada, and Vidarbha receiving heavy showers.
Maharashtra's Preparedness and Response
In Maharashtra, the cyclone prompted authorities to issue alerts for coastal districts such as Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, and Raigad. The IMD forecasted light to moderate rainfall in these areas, with the possibility of heavy showers in Palghar district on October 8. The state government activated its disaster management systems, prepared evacuation plans for citizens in coastal and low-lying areas, and advised against sea travel. Fishermen were urged to stay ashore due to rough sea conditions.
The cyclone's impact on Maharashtra was relatively limited, with no significant damage reported. However, the preparedness measures ensured that the state was ready to respond effectively if the situation had escalated.
Gujarat's Vigilance and Impact
In Gujarat, Cyclone Shakti's path shifted towards the state's coastline, prompting authorities to step up preparations. Residents in vulnerable areas, especially in Saurashtra and Kutch, were urged to remain vigilant. The IMD had earlier indicated that the cyclone might make landfall in Gujarat, but as the storm weakened, the threat diminished. Nonetheless, the state maintained its preparedness to handle any potential impact.
The cyclone's impact on Gujarat was minimal, with no major damage reported. The state's proactive measures and the storm's weakening trajectory contributed to the limited effects.
Broader Implications and Lessons Learned
Cyclone Shakti's formation and impact underscore the importance of early warning systems and preparedness in mitigating the effects of natural disasters. Both Maharashtra and Gujarat demonstrated effective coordination and response, minimizing potential damage and ensuring public safety.
The storm also highlighted the need for continuous monitoring and adaptation to changing weather patterns. As climate change influences the frequency and intensity of cyclonic storms, it is crucial for states to invest in resilient infrastructure and community awareness programs.
Preparation and Response: How Countries Are Coping
In response to these growing challenges, countries are investing in better storm preparedness and resilience strategies. Mexico, the Philippines, and Vietnam have all improved their early-warning systems to better inform tourists and residents of approaching storms. However, despite these advancements, there is still much work to be done to ensure the safety of tourists and protect infrastructure from future hurricanes and typhoons.
The tourism industry must collaborate with government agencies to develop comprehensive plans for disaster recovery and business continuity. Local tourism operators, as well as international travel agencies, must be flexible and prepared to offer alternatives in case of cancellations. Additionally, insurance companies are being called upon to provide coverage for storm-related disruptions, ensuring that tourists aren't financially burdened by weather-related events.
Looking Ahead: Hurricane and Typhoon Season Predictions
Looking to the future, experts predict that the 2025 hurricane and typhoon season may see even more frequent and intense storms. With climate change contributing to rising sea temperatures, these storms are becoming more powerful and unpredictable. Countries will need to strengthen their disaster-response systems, and the global tourism industry must prepare for the ongoing impacts of natural disasters.
For the tourism industry, this means investing in sustainable practices, including building infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather conditions. More regions will also have to develop storm preparedness plans to ensure the safety of visitors. Tourists, too, must stay informed and be aware of the potential risks involved in travelling to hurricane-prone areas.
As the 2025 hurricane season continues, countries around the world face the ongoing challenge of preparing for and responding to the impacts of powerful storms like Hurricane Priscilla and Typhoon Bualoi. The tourism industry in affected regions is experiencing significant disruptions, and recovery efforts will take time. However, through improved preparedness, international cooperation, and stronger resilience strategies, it is possible to minimize the long-term effects of these storms on tourism. Travellers and tourism operators alike must remain flexible and aware of the evolving situation to ensure that travel continues to be safe and enjoyable, even in the face of these increasingly frequent and powerful storms.