Mexicans refuse to evacuate

Thousands of residents in Mexico\'s Baja California peninsula have ignored pleas to evacuate as Hurricane Jimena bears down on the region.



Jimena has weakened to a category three storm but forecasters say it could still be near major hurricane strength when it makes landfall today.



Mexican officials say despite an evacuation warning many people have refused to leave their homes.



They say they have decided to remain out of fear that their homes might be looted. But officials say if it becomes necessary, they will be evacuated by force.



The US-based National Hurricane Center has warned of heavy rain, coastal flooding and mudslides.