Hurricane Erick Gearing Up for Major Impact on Mexico’s Coast
Hurricane Erick is on track to strengthen significantly as it nears the coast of southern Mexico, according to the United States National Hurricane Center (NHC). The storm is anticipated to unleash heavy rainfall, fierce winds, storm surges, and the risk of mudslides, presenting serious threats of “life-threatening flooding and landslides” in the region.
Starting as a tropical storm, Erick transitioned to a Category 1 hurricane on Wednesday, registering maximum sustained winds of 120 km/h (75 mph). At that moment, it was positioned approximately 255 km (158 miles) from Puerto Angel in Oaxaca.
The NHC indicated that “rapid strengthening is expected today,” with Erick possibly reaching major hurricane status by the time it approaches the southern coast of Mexico on Thursday.
Predictions suggest substantial rainfall for the Mexican states of Oaxaca and Guerrero, while lighter precipitation may affect Chiapas, Michoacan, Colima, and Jalisco.
Amid these warnings, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has urged citizens to remain vigilant. The storm’s projected trajectory places it near the famed resort city of Acapulco, which suffered extensive damage in October 2023 from Hurricane Otis—a Category 5 storm that resulted in at least 52 fatalities and significantly impacted local infrastructure.
Additionally, another storm, John, a Category 3 that struck in September the previous year, claimed around 15 lives.
As of 2025, residents and officials continue to monitor Erick’s development closely, preparing for potential evacuation and emergency responses along the vulnerable coastline.