Tropical Depression Gathers Strength Near Mexico's Southwest Coast

MEXICO CITY (AP) _ A tropical depression scattered rains across Mexico's Pacific coast on Sunday and the U.S. National Hurricane Center said it was likely to reach tropical storm force.

The depression had maximum sustained winds of 35 mph (55 kph) with higher gusts Sunday afternoon. It was centered about 80 miles (130 kilometers) southwest of the port city of Lazaro Cardenas.

The Mexican government discontinued a tropical storm warning for the coast between Lazaro Cardenas and Acapulco. However, a tropical storm watch remained between Lazaro Cardenas and Manzanillo, to the north.

The center of the depression was expected to closely parallel or move over the coast Sunday or Monday, the U.S. National Hurricane Center said.

The depression, which formed Saturday, was moving northwest at 8 mph (13 kph).

Forecasters warned of the potential for flash flooding and mudslides.