DATELINE: 22 September 2002

DIVERS EVACUATED FROM ISLAND AS HURRICANE APPROACHES

Isla Mujers, a popular diving destination close to the Mexican resort of Cancun, has been evacuated as Hurricane Isidore approaches.
Winds of well over 100 miles per hour are expected to lash the Yucatan peninsula north of Tulum. Dozens of flights from Cancun's international airport have been cancelled, and police and soldiers have moved over 20,000 people inland.
The hurricane is likely to narrowly miss Cozumel, the primary diving destination in the area. Reports indicate that the island is already experiencing rain, strong winds and large waves with most diving activities suspended. Would-be divers are renting surf boards to make the most of the conditions.
Hurricane Isidore is forecast to move into the Gulf of Mexico, and possibly on to Texas and Louisiana over the next 14 days.