As Hurricane Erick approaches Mexico, it is set to make landfall as a formidable Category 4 storm. The hurricane has already triggered flash floods and imposed school closures in Oaxaca and Guerrero, two southern states severely impacted by its wrath. Officials predict the storm's landfall to occur west of Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, where residents brace for destructive winds, heavy rain, and the risk of dangerous storm surges.
The National Hurricane Center issued a hurricane warning for a 300-mile stretch of coastline extending from Puerto Ángel in Oaxaca to Acapulco, Guerrero. In response, Mexico's Civil Protection authorities have placed several areas under a red alert, the highest level of warning for severe weather conditions. Areas in southern Mexico's path are preparing for intense rainfall and hazardous conditions, with the Mexican government creating over 2,000 temporary shelters across Guerrero, Oaxaca, and the neighboring state of Chiapas to accommodate evacuees.
President Claudia Sheinbaum urged citizens located in low-lying areas, alongside rivers or waterways, to evacuate to these emergency shelters. Reports from Lagunas de Chacahua, a fishing community in Oaxaca, indicated that over 100 residents were relocated to shelters by Wednesday, as floodwaters engulfed their homes, particularly affecting local fishermen and tourism services.
In Salina Cruz, one of Oaxaca's main seaports, storm-induced flooding left cars submerged, prompting police assistance and clearing efforts for debris obstructing the roads. As a precaution, local businesses and residents in Puerto Escondido hurried to secure their properties, with many boarding up windows and doors, while tourists were advised to remain inside their hotels until the storm passes.
Schools in parts of Oaxaca have closed for the second consecutive day, according to Emilio Montero Pérez, director of the Oaxaca State Institute of Public Education. As the situation unfolds, authorities are closely monitoring dams and river conditions to mitigate risks from flash flooding and ensure community safety.
Hurricane Erick represents the fifth named storm of the Eastern Pacific hurricane season for 2025, a season that mirrors the Atlantic hurricane pattern ending on November 30. The region remains on high alert, recalling the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Otis, a Category 5 storm that struck in 2023, claiming over 50 lives and resulting in significant destruction in Acapulco.
As communities prepare for Hurricane Erick, the emphasis remains on public safety and the preservation of life. Events are continuing to develop, and officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and heed warnings.
The National Hurricane Center issued a hurricane warning for a 300-mile stretch of coastline extending from Puerto Ángel in Oaxaca to Acapulco, Guerrero. In response, Mexico's Civil Protection authorities have placed several areas under a red alert, the highest level of warning for severe weather conditions. Areas in southern Mexico's path are preparing for intense rainfall and hazardous conditions, with the Mexican government creating over 2,000 temporary shelters across Guerrero, Oaxaca, and the neighboring state of Chiapas to accommodate evacuees.
President Claudia Sheinbaum urged citizens located in low-lying areas, alongside rivers or waterways, to evacuate to these emergency shelters. Reports from Lagunas de Chacahua, a fishing community in Oaxaca, indicated that over 100 residents were relocated to shelters by Wednesday, as floodwaters engulfed their homes, particularly affecting local fishermen and tourism services.
In Salina Cruz, one of Oaxaca's main seaports, storm-induced flooding left cars submerged, prompting police assistance and clearing efforts for debris obstructing the roads. As a precaution, local businesses and residents in Puerto Escondido hurried to secure their properties, with many boarding up windows and doors, while tourists were advised to remain inside their hotels until the storm passes.
Schools in parts of Oaxaca have closed for the second consecutive day, according to Emilio Montero Pérez, director of the Oaxaca State Institute of Public Education. As the situation unfolds, authorities are closely monitoring dams and river conditions to mitigate risks from flash flooding and ensure community safety.
Hurricane Erick represents the fifth named storm of the Eastern Pacific hurricane season for 2025, a season that mirrors the Atlantic hurricane pattern ending on November 30. The region remains on high alert, recalling the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Otis, a Category 5 storm that struck in 2023, claiming over 50 lives and resulting in significant destruction in Acapulco.
As communities prepare for Hurricane Erick, the emphasis remains on public safety and the preservation of life. Events are continuing to develop, and officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and heed warnings.
