Tropical Storm Arlene Hits Mexico

Tropical Storm Arlene Hits MexicoMexico City, Jun 30. -Tropical storm Arlene hit Mexico on Thursday, entering northern Veracruz state with hurricane category, the National Meteorological Service (SMN) reported.

According to reports, on Wednesday night Arlene was located 135 kilometers east of Tuxpan, north of Veracruz, and 225 kilometres east-southeast of Tampico.

The storm was moving west at a speed of eight miles (11 kilometers) per hour, with maximum sustained winds of 85 kph.

According to the SMN, rains accompanying this event could cause sudden floods and mudslide; and could also create life-threatening conditions.

A total of 16 Mexican states were on alert, according to the General Coordinator of Civil Protection, Laura Gurza.

Arlene is the first tropical storm of the 2011 season in the Atlantic, which started on June 1 and ends November 30. (Prensa Latina)