Hurricane Erick Intensifies to Category 3
Hurricane Erick has strengthened to Category 3 on the Saffir-Simpson scale, with maximum sustained winds of 205 km/h and a west-northwest movement at 15 km/h, according to Mexico’s National Water Commission (Conagua).
Current Location and Path
As of the 9:00 PM report, Hurricane Erick is located 75 kilometers south of Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, and 200 kilometers from Punta Maldonado, Guerrero. The hurricane’s eye has a diameter of 28 km.
Expected Impacts
Conagua warns of extraordinary rainfall in Oaxaca, Guerrero, and Chiapas. Strong winds exceeding 220 km/h and waves 6 to 8 meters high are expected along the coasts of Oaxaca and Guerrero. Chiapas will experience wind gusts of 100 to 120 km/h and waves 4 to 5 meters high. A storm surge of 2 to 2.5 meters is expected along the coast of Oaxaca, and waterspouts are possible off the coast of Oaxaca.
Precautionary Measures
A hurricane watch is in effect from Acapulco, Guerrero, to Puerto Ángel, Oaxaca. A hurricane warning is in effect from west of Acapulco, Guerrero, to Técpan de Galeana, Guerrero. A hurricane watch is also in effect from east of Puerto Ángel, Oaxaca, to Salina Cruz, Oaxaca. A hurricane watch remains in effect from west of Acapulco, Guerrero, to Técpan de Galeana, Guerrero.
Impact on Major Cities and Preparations
Puerto Escondido, a popular tourist port with approximately 30,000 inhabitants, is the largest town in the area and could be affected by the hurricane’s wind wall. The city is preparing for potential impacts, with most businesses closing and boats being secured along the coast.
The southern Pacific coast is under alert, leading to the closure of ports and suspension of non-essential activities and classes. Residents are stocking up on supplies, fearing potential shortages.
Government Response and Contingency Plan
Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, has urged the public to stay informed and take shelter. Over 2,000 shelters have been prepared, and hundreds of military personnel are part of the contingency plan.
Acapulco, which previously experienced Hurricane Otis (Category 5) in October 2023, causing 50 deaths and 50 disappearances, is taking precautions. Businesses are boarding up windows, and tour operators are removing boats from the water to prevent damage.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is Hurricane Erick’s current status? Hurricane Erick has intensified to Category 3 on the Saffir-Simpson scale, with maximum sustained winds of 205 km/h and a west-northwest movement at 15 km/h.
- Which areas are at risk? The coasts of Oaxaca, Guerrero, and Chiapas are expected to experience significant impacts from Hurricane Erick.
- What precautionary measures have been taken? Ports have been closed, classes suspended, and over 2,000 shelters prepared. The public is urged to stay informed and take shelter.
- What lessons were learned from Hurricane Otis? Acapulco, which previously experienced Hurricane Otis, is taking additional precautions such as boarding up windows and removing boats from the water.
