Tropical depression Twenty-Two-E forms with 35 mph winds in eastern Pacific

The National Hurricane Center reported the formation of Tropical Depression Twenty-Two-E in the eastern Pacific Ocean. As of 9 a.m. CST on October 21, the system was located near latitude 9.5 North and longitude 99.3 West, approximately 515 miles south of Acapulco, Mexico.

The depression is moving westward at about 7 mph with maximum sustained winds near 35 mph and higher gusts. The minimum central pressure was estimated at 1005 millibars. The system is forecast to turn northwest then north-northwest over the next few days.

Forecasters expect steady to rapid intensification, with the tropical depression likely to become a hurricane by Friday. Currently, no coastal watches or warnings are in effect.

Swells generated by the system are expected to affect portions of the southern and southwestern Mexican coast this weekend and into next week, potentially causing life-threatening surf and rip currents. Local weather offices have been advised to issue relevant products.

The National Hurricane Center plans to issue the next advisory at 3 p.m. CST.