Tropical Storm Gil Set to Become a Hurricane While Iona Remains Weaker

Tropical Storm Gil is gaining momentum in the Pacific Ocean and is projected to intensify into a hurricane soon. Meanwhile, Iona is expected to maintain its tropical storm status as it gradually loses strength.

According to a 5 a.m. Hawaiian Standard Time advisory from the National Hurricane Center on Friday, August 1, Gil is currently situated approximately 920 miles southwest of the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula, advancing west-northwest.

With maximum sustained winds near 65 mph and stronger gusts, Gil is anticipated to escalate to hurricane status by Friday, August 1, according to NHC forecasters. However, it is expected to weaken steadily over the weekend.

On the other hand, Iona is positioned about 1,295 miles west-southwest of Honolulu, Hawaii, carrying maximum sustained winds close to 40 mph with higher gusts. The storm is heading west-northwest, and this track is predicted to continue for the next couple of days, although its forward speed is expected to taper off gradually.