Hurricane Erick Triggers Cleanup Operations in Southern Mexico

Southern Mexico engages in extensive clean-up efforts following Hurricane Erick's impact, which brought significant disruption and destruction to several regions, particularly impacting Puerto Escondido.

Southern Mexico is embarking on an extensive recovery operation following the ferocious onslaught of Hurricane Erick, a catastrophic Category 3 storm that struck the Pacific coastline. The picturesque coastal town of Puerto Escondido in Oaxaca state was one of the hardest hit, suffering extensive damage to infrastructure, including power outages and disrupted communication.

Residents in Puerto Escondido reported massive flooding and damages to streets, with electricity and phone services knocked out for many. Fortunately, officials have confirmed no casualties or serious injuries resulting from the storm. The hurricane's intensity diminished rapidly to a Category 1 shortly after making landfall, but the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) warned that hazardous flooding and strong winds would continue as Erick moved to the north. There remains a risk of "life-threatening" storm surges, with predictions of waves reaching up to 10 meters (33 feet) along the coast.

In response to the crisis, hundreds of troops were dispatched to assist in recovery efforts throughout Puerto Escondido, where substantial damage affected several buildings and flooded roads. Local merchant Luis Alberto Gil expressed shock at the severity of the flooding, stating, “The water had never hit with this magnitude.”

State-owned utility CFE reported that more than 120,000 residents faced power outages, though by late morning, a quarter of those affected had their service restored. Wind gusts in Oaxaca reached an alarming 125 mph (205 km/h) before tapering off to 85 mph.

As preparations intensify for ongoing threats, neighboring regions like Guerrero and Acapulco remain on alert. The city of Acapulco has seen a drastic reduction in activity, with residents heeding advice to stay indoors. Many took precautionary measures, stocking up on essential supplies before the storm's arrival.

Evacuation alerts are still active for the possibility of serious flooding and mudslides, prompting President Claudia Sheinbaum to advocate for safety and encourage residents in vulnerable areas to utilize the 2,000 shelters set up across Chiapas, Guerrero, and Oaxaca in preparation for the storm’s impact.

In a sobering reminder, the region recently faced tragedy during Hurricane Otis in 2023, which resulted in at least 50 fatalities when it unexpectedly intensified before making landfall. The aftermath of Hurricane Erick highlights the ongoing vulnerability of southern Mexico to powerful storms and the importance of readiness in the face of nature's ferocity.

If you are in an area affected by Hurricane Erick and can safely share your experience, please reach out via email or WhatsApp to contribute to the ongoing story.