Hurricane Barbara Hits Mexico, 2 Dead, 14 Missing Despite Tropical Storm Downgrade

Hurricane Barbara made landfall at Mexico's southern Pacific coast Wednesday, with at least two confirmed killed and 14 reported missing since its arrival.

The U.S. Embassy has confirmed the death of 61-year-old surfer from Colorado, reported USA Today.

The American was reportedly surfing at Playa Azul near resort town Puerto Escondido when he was dragged out by waves disturbed by Barbara's arrival.

Maza Sanchez, director of civil defense for Oaxaca state, also reported a second victim, who tragically drowned trying to cross a creek near Pinotepa Nacional. The victim was reportedly a 26-year-old man.

Wednesday morning, 14 fishermen also set out to sea in Tapanatepec, Oaxaca, and have been missing ever since, reported Yahoo! News.

The main concern as Barbara continues it treks through Mexico is whether it will continue into the Gulf of Mexico.

"The current thinking is that the circulation will have been so severely disrupted by that time that regeneration is unlikely."

Fortunately, the hurricane was downgraded to a tropical storm as it quickly lost power. From the 75 mph wind as it hit the Mexican shore, it has since dropped to 60 mph.

Still, severe flooding and mudslides are reportedly highly probable in the coming hours, as warned by Surfline.

As the storm continues along the coast, schools have been suspended and emergencies shelters have been prepared for coastal communities.

Stay tuned for updates on Barbara as the storm inches closer to the Gulf of Mexico.