MIAMI – ********* Dolores remains a major Category 3 storm in the Pacific but is expected to start weakening.

The storm’s maximum sustained winds early Thursday are near 115 mph (185 kph) but the U.S. National ********* Center says gradual weakening is expected to begin later in the day or Thursday night.

Dolores is centred about 255 miles (410 kilometres) south-southwest of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and is moving west-northwest near 7 mph (11 kph).

Swells generated by the ********* are affecting parts of Mexico’s southwestern coast along with the southern coast of the Baja California peninsula. The swells could cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.