Background on Key Figures and Relevance
Hurricane “Erick” made landfall early this morning as a Category 3 near Pinotepa Nacional, Oaxaca. The storm, according to the latest report from Mexico’s National Weather Service (SMN), has sustained winds of up to 180 kilometers per hour and is expected to bring accumulated rainfall of up to 500 millimeters, with a risk of storm surges reaching 1.5 meters.
Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s capital city chief, and Raymundo Pedro Morales Ángeles, the Secretary of the Navy (SEMAR), are key figures in this situation. Laura Velázquez Alzúa leads the National Civil Protection Coordination (CNPC), which is responsible for managing the response to this hurricane.
Current Situation and Impact
According to the latest updates, Hurricane “Erick” has already come ashore and is moving through the border region of Oaxaca and Guerrero. While nearby rivers are reported at 51% of their capacity, authorities warn about potential overflows and flooding in low-lying areas.
As of now, damages have been relatively minor, with issues such as landslides and waterlogging reported. No human casualties have been reported, but over 100 people have been relocated to temporary shelters set up in strategic locations. The Puerto Escondido airport remains closed.
Deployment of Resources
More than 21,000 elements from the Secretariat of National Defense (Sedena), the Navy Secretariat (SEMAR), the National Guard, and other institutions have been deployed for preventive measures, evacuations, and assistance to the population. In areas most affected, like Punta Maldonado and Acapulco, maritime navigation has been suspended, and restrictions remain in high-risk zones.
Official Updates and Recommendations
Through social media, the Navy has reported that they are maintaining the “Plan Marina” in an aid phase for Oaxaca and Guerrero, while other states like Veracruz, Colima, Tabasco, and Campeche are in a preventive phase. The ongoing efforts include rescue operations, medical attention, and logistical support at shelters.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Claudia Sheinbaum? Claudia Sheinbaum is the head of Mexico City’s government, responsible for managing the capital city’s response to natural disasters like Hurricane “Erick”.
- What is the National Civil Protection Coordination (CNPC)? The CNPC, led by Laura Velázquez Alzúa, is responsible for coordinating the national response to disasters and emergencies in Mexico.
- What measures have been taken by authorities? Authorities have deployed over 21,000 personnel from various institutions for preventive actions, evacuations, and assistance. They have also set up temporary shelters and closed airports in high-risk areas.
- What are the expected impacts of Hurricane “Erick”? The hurricane is expected to bring sustained winds of up to 180 km/h, heavy rainfall (up to 500 mm), and storm surges of up to 1.5 meters, potentially causing river overflows and flooding in low-lying areas.
- What recommendations have been issued by Claudia Sheinbaum? Claudia Sheinbaum has urged the public to stay vigilant and follow official information, as the hurricane’s effects will continue even after landfall through heavy rainfall affecting mountainous regions in Guerrero and possibly Michoacán.
