Hurricane Erick strikes Mexico’s Oaxaca state, marking the first major hurricane to hit the region before July. Early Thursday morning, the Category 3 storm unleashed winds of 125 mph and heavy rainfall, causing widespread concern. NOAA’s National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported Erick’s landfall 20 miles east of Punta Maldonado.
Early Season Category 3 Hurricane Makes History
Erick’s impact marked the first time on record that a major hurricane hit Mexico before July. The storm intensified rapidly, reaching a peak as a Category 4 hurricane with winds of 145 mph just off the coast early Thursday morning. Over a 24-hour period, Erick transformed from a tropical storm into a Category 4 hurricane, showcasing extreme rapid intensification. This phenomenon is becoming more common as global temperatures rise due to climate change.
Erick’s Path and Aftermath
The hurricane is rapidly weakening as it moves inland through Mexico’s steep mountain ranges. By Thursday afternoon, Erick had downgraded to a Category 1 hurricane and is expected to dissipate by early Friday. Despite losing strength, Erick is forecasted to drop heavy rainfall, which may lead to dangerous flooding and mudslides. The NHC predicts up to 16 inches of rain in Guerrero’s mountainous areas, with coastal Oaxaca and Guerrero expected to receive up to 8 inches. Acapulco could record as much as 6 inches of rain, though the city will avoid Erick’s most powerful winds.
Unusual Activity in the Pacific Hurricane Season
The East Pacific hurricane season, which began in mid-May, has already been unusually active. Erick is the fifth named storm of the season and the second hurricane, ahead of the typical timeline. The Atlantic hurricane season, by contrast, has yet to produce its first named storm.
Acapulco Residents Brace for Impact
Acapulco, which suffered catastrophic damage from Hurricane Otis in October 2023, narrowly escaped the worst of Erick. While the coastal city experienced heavy rain and tropical storm-force gusts up to 45 mph, it avoided the hurricane’s strongest winds. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum urged residents to remain at home and follow official instructions. In preparation, authorities suspended activities in Erick’s projected path, including closing schools and the Acapulco port. Guerrero Governor Evelyn Salgado announced the establishment of 582 shelters across the state to assist evacuees.
Government Prepares for Torrential Rain and Flooding
Mexico’s national civil defense coordinator, Laura Velázquez, warned that Erick could bring torrential rains to the states of Guerrero, Oaxaca, and Chiapas. The mountainous terrain along Mexico’s southerHurricane Erick Strikes Mexico as Category 3 Stormn coast is particularly vulnerable to mudslides, and the numerous rivers in the region are at high risk of flooding. National Guard and police forces were deployed to assist with preparations and potential evacuations.
Residents Recall the Devastation of Hurricane Otis
For many residents, Erick’s arrival stirred memories of Hurricane Otis, which devastated Acapulco with Category 5 winds less than a year ago. Carlos Ozuna Romero, a restaurant owner who lost his business during Otis, shared his concerns as Erick approached. “Authorities’ warnings fill us with fear and obviously make us remember everything we’ve already been through,” he said. Crews in Acapulco worked to clear drainage canals and remove debris to mitigate potential damage.
Preparing for More Extreme Weather Events
Erick’s rapid intensification highlights the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events tied to climate change. Meteorologists emphasize the importance of preparedness and timely evacuation measures in minimizing loss of life and property. As global temperatures continue to rise, communities along hurricane-prone coastlines face mounting challenges in adapting to these powerful storms.
