Tropical Storm Norbert Strengthens Off Mexico

MEXICO CITY - Tropical Storm Norbert is growing toward hurricane force off Mexico's Pacific coast and forecasters say it might bring weekend rains and wind to the Baja California Peninsula.

The U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami says Norbert is centered about 325 miles (525 kilometers) south of Manzanillo and is moving west at near 8 mph (13 kph). Maximum sustained winds are near 65 mph (100 kph).

It's expected to strengthen and turn toward the northwest. Forecasters say it may near southern Baja California on the weekend, but it's likely to slip below hurricane force first.

Meanwhile Monday, former Tropical Storm Marie faded to a tropical depression far out in the Pacific.