Interannual Variability of Tropical Cyclone Landfalls in the Eastern North Pacific: Environmental Drivers and Implications

Abstract Despite its high tropical cyclone (TC) density, the Eastern North Pacific (ENP) basin has received relatively little research attention on landfall variability. This study investigates the climatological seasonal cycle and interannual variability of TC landfalls in the ENP. We find that the basin is characterized by a bimodal distribution of landfalls, with peaks in June and September–October. Using a composite analysis of high and low landfall years, we show that this distribution is primarily driven by landfall probability rather than genesis. The absence of landfalls during July is due to enhanced easterlies from the Caribbean Low‐Level Jet entering the ENP through gaps in the Americas Cordillera. High landfall years feature enhanced easterly wind reversals from a northward‐shifted Intertropical Convergence Zone. These additional steering winds drive hurricanes ashore in the vulnerable region of southwest Mexico. This study provides valuable insights for improving TC landfall forecasts and preparedness in the region.