**Tropical Storm Ileana (2018)**
**Definition**
Tropical Storm Ileana was a short-lived tropical cyclone that formed in the Eastern Pacific Ocean in August 2018. It was the ninth named storm of the 2018 Pacific hurricane season and primarily affected parts of southwestern Mexico with heavy rainfall and gusty winds.
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## Tropical Storm Ileana (2018)
### Meteorological History
Tropical Storm Ileana originated from a tropical wave that moved off the coast of Central America in mid-August 2018. The system gradually organized as it moved west-northwestward over warm waters of the Eastern Pacific. On August 10, 2018, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) designated the system as Tropical Depression Eleven-E, located several hundred miles south of the southern coast of Mexico. The depression quickly intensified and was upgraded to Tropical Storm Ileana later that day.
Ileana reached its peak intensity on August 11, with maximum sustained winds of 60 mph (95 km/h) and a minimum central pressure of 997 millibars. The storm maintained a generally west-northwest track, steered by a subtropical ridge to its north. However, increasing wind shear and cooler sea surface temperatures caused Ileana to weaken rapidly. By August 12, the storm had degenerated into a remnant low and dissipated shortly thereafter.
### Impact
Although Ileana remained offshore for most of its duration, its proximity to the Mexican coast resulted in significant rainfall across parts of southwestern Mexico, including the states of Guerrero, Oaxaca, and Michoacán. The heavy rains caused localized flooding and mudslides, particularly in mountainous areas. Several communities experienced disruptions due to flooded roads and landslides, but no major structural damage was reported.
The storm also produced gusty winds along the coast, leading to minor damage to vegetation and power lines. Authorities issued warnings and advisories to residents in vulnerable areas, urging caution due to the potential for flash flooding and hazardous marine conditions.
### Preparations and Response
Mexican civil protection agencies monitored the storm closely and coordinated with local governments to prepare for potential impacts. Evacuation centers were readied in flood-prone regions, and emergency services were placed on alert. Public advisories emphasized the dangers of heavy rainfall and rough seas, particularly for fishermen and coastal communities.
Following the storm, cleanup efforts focused on clearing debris from roads and restoring access to affected areas. The relatively limited damage and absence of fatalities were attributed to timely warnings and effective preparedness measures.
### Records and Significance
Tropical Storm Ileana was notable for its rapid development and short lifespan, lasting only about two days as a tropical cyclone. It was the ninth named storm of the 2018 Pacific hurricane season, which was characterized by near-average activity. Ileana did not reach hurricane strength, and its impacts were relatively minor compared to other storms in the region.
Despite its limited intensity, Ileana served as a reminder of the hazards posed by tropical storms, particularly in terms of heavy rainfall and flooding in vulnerable coastal and mountainous areas.
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**Meta Description:**
Tropical Storm Ileana (2018) was a brief but impactful tropical cyclone in the Eastern Pacific that brought heavy rains and gusty winds to southwestern Mexico. It was the ninth named storm of the 2018 Pacific hurricane season.