Tropical Storm Arlene heads to Mexico

VERACRUZ, Mexico — The first tropical storm of the Atlantic hurricane season gained force as it headed for Mexico’s central gulf coast yesterday, bringing a threat of floods and mudslides.

Tropical Storm Arlene could hit land north of the coastal city of Tuxpan early today a little short of hurricane force, according to the US National Hurricane Center in Miami. Officials in the states of Veracruz, Tamaulipas, and San Luis Potosi said they were preparing for possible flooding.

The state oil company, Petroleos Mexicanos, said it would consider whether to evacuate its oil platforms. Rain was falling along the coast ahead of the storm, and officials warned residents about impending winds and rain. Officials said 6 inches of rain were possible in northern Veracruz state.