The storm has escalated to a Category 4 hurricane with life-threatening winds of up to 230 km/h, prompting warnings and evacuation measures along Mexico's Pacific coastline.
Hurricane Erick Intensifies: A Category 4 Threat to Mexico's Pacific Coast
Hurricane Erick Intensifies: A Category 4 Threat to Mexico's Pacific Coast
As Hurricane Erick approaches, authorities warn of "extremely dangerous" conditions impacting coastal regions.
Hurricane Erick has rapidly intensified into an “extremely dangerous” Category 4 storm, poised to make landfall on Mexico’s Pacific coast, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC). With maximum sustained winds reaching 230 km/h (145 mph) as of late Wednesday local time, further strengthening is anticipated as it approaches.
Forecasts indicate that Erick may hit land later today, with the states of Oaxaca and Guerrero on high alert due to the potential for “devastating wind damage.” In response to the impending disaster, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum urged residents in the storm's path to closely monitor official announcements and to remain indoors.
A hurricane warning has been activated for a 500 km stretch of coastline, spanning from the popular resort area of Acapulco to Puerto Ángel. Authorities have cautioned residents about life-threatening flooding and dangerous swells, particularly for those situated in low-lying regions or near waterways. President Sheinbaum advised affected individuals to seek shelter in the 2,000 emergency facilities established throughout Chiapas, Guerrero, and Oaxaca. An extensive preparation effort has mobilized over 18,000 first responders to mitigate the storm’s impact.
This season is particularly notable as Erick is projected to be the first hurricane to make landfall in Mexico for the 2023 hurricane season, which runs from June to November. The recent memory of Hurricane Otis, a Category 5 storm that brutally struck Acapulco in October, underscores the urgency, as it resulted in at least 50 fatalities. Otis's rapid intensification left many residents unprepared, a situation officials are striving to avoid this time around.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and adhere to safety protocols as the storm approaches. For those affected by Hurricane Erick, authorities invite feedback and reports, establishing a direct line for communication regarding the storm’s aftermath.
Forecasts indicate that Erick may hit land later today, with the states of Oaxaca and Guerrero on high alert due to the potential for “devastating wind damage.” In response to the impending disaster, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum urged residents in the storm's path to closely monitor official announcements and to remain indoors.
A hurricane warning has been activated for a 500 km stretch of coastline, spanning from the popular resort area of Acapulco to Puerto Ángel. Authorities have cautioned residents about life-threatening flooding and dangerous swells, particularly for those situated in low-lying regions or near waterways. President Sheinbaum advised affected individuals to seek shelter in the 2,000 emergency facilities established throughout Chiapas, Guerrero, and Oaxaca. An extensive preparation effort has mobilized over 18,000 first responders to mitigate the storm’s impact.
This season is particularly notable as Erick is projected to be the first hurricane to make landfall in Mexico for the 2023 hurricane season, which runs from June to November. The recent memory of Hurricane Otis, a Category 5 storm that brutally struck Acapulco in October, underscores the urgency, as it resulted in at least 50 fatalities. Otis's rapid intensification left many residents unprepared, a situation officials are striving to avoid this time around.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and adhere to safety protocols as the storm approaches. For those affected by Hurricane Erick, authorities invite feedback and reports, establishing a direct line for communication regarding the storm’s aftermath.
