Overview and Key Details
Hurricane “Erick” has strengthened to a Category 2 on the Saffir-Simpson scale near Mexico’s southern Pacific coast, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) of the United States. The NHC predicts landfall on Thursday morning in the border area between Oaxaca and Guerrero states.
Currently, Erick is 165 kilometers away from Puerto Ángel, Oaxaca, with maximum sustained winds of 155 kilometers per hour. The NHC anticipates rapid intensification of the storm by Wednesday, potentially reaching “major hurricane” status (Category 3 or higher) in the Saffir-Simpson scale.
Path and Impact
Erick is moving northwest at 15 kilometers per hour and is expected to make landfall in the early hours of Thursday between Oaxaca and Guerrero. Authorities anticipate heavy rainfall in the southern states of Guerrero, Oaxaca, and Chiapas. The Mexican government has prepared approximately 2,000 shelters for potential evacuees.
Government Response and Preparations
Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, urged citizens to stay informed and take necessary precautions.
“Please remain attentive to official communications, stay indoors, and avoid venturing out, especially if you live near rivers or waterways. Move to designated shelters if needed,” Sheinbaum advised during her daily press conference.
- Classes have been suspended in affected municipalities.
- Puertos have been closed to navigation.
- The government deployed hundreds of military personnel as part of the contingency plan.
Historical Context and Previous Impact
Mexico frequently experiences cyclones along both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts, typically between May and November. In September 2024, the southern Pacific coast was struck twice by Hurricane John, which reached Category 3 status and resulted in at least 15 fatalities, mostly in Acapulco.
Acapulco, previously hit by Hurricane Otis in October 2023 (Category 5), suffered significant damage. Otis caused around 50 deaths and left 50 people missing. As a result, residents are now preparing for Erick by stocking up on supplies and securing their properties.
