The approaching storm could bring severe flooding and winds as high as 230 km/h, prompting widespread preparation and warnings
Hurricane Erick Strengthens to Category 4, Threatening Mexico’s Pacific Coast
Hurricane Erick Strengthens to Category 4, Threatening Mexico’s Pacific Coast
As Hurricane Erick approaches Mexico, authorities and residents brace for potential devastation along the Pacific Coast
Hurricane Erick has escalated to an "extremely dangerous" Category 4 storm, signaling a significant threat to Mexico's Pacific coastline, according to the US National Hurricane Center (NHC). The storm, with maximum sustained winds reaching 230 km/h (145 mph), is expected to make landfall late Thursday, primarily affecting the states of Oaxaca and Guerrero. Forecasters have indicated that the storm may cause "devastating wind damage" upon impact.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has urged residents in the storm's path to remain alert and heed official communications, advising those in low-lying areas or near waterways to evacuate to designated shelters. A hurricane warning is currently issued for a 500 km stretch of the Pacific coast, ranging from the popular resort city of Acapulco to Puerto Ángel. Local authorities have also warned about potential life-threatening floods and large swells, as well as possible mudslides in mountainous regions.
In anticipation of the storm, approximately 2,000 emergency shelters have been established throughout Chiapas, Guerrero, and Oaxaca, bolstered by the mobilization of over 18,000 first responders. Hurricane Erick marks the first major hurricane of the season, which typically spans from June to November. This follows the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Otis in October 2023, which claimed at least 50 lives and devastated Acapulco, highlighting the urgent need for community preparedness and timely evacuation measures.
Residents and those in affected areas are encouraged to monitor updates and adhere to safety protocols to mitigate risks associated with the impending storm.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has urged residents in the storm's path to remain alert and heed official communications, advising those in low-lying areas or near waterways to evacuate to designated shelters. A hurricane warning is currently issued for a 500 km stretch of the Pacific coast, ranging from the popular resort city of Acapulco to Puerto Ángel. Local authorities have also warned about potential life-threatening floods and large swells, as well as possible mudslides in mountainous regions.
In anticipation of the storm, approximately 2,000 emergency shelters have been established throughout Chiapas, Guerrero, and Oaxaca, bolstered by the mobilization of over 18,000 first responders. Hurricane Erick marks the first major hurricane of the season, which typically spans from June to November. This follows the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Otis in October 2023, which claimed at least 50 lives and devastated Acapulco, highlighting the urgent need for community preparedness and timely evacuation measures.
Residents and those in affected areas are encouraged to monitor updates and adhere to safety protocols to mitigate risks associated with the impending storm.
