Mexico: Hurricane Erick has rapidly intensified into an ‘extremely dangerous’ Category 4 storm as it barrels toward Mexico’s Pacific coastline, the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) has confirmed. The storm is expected to make landfall within hours, posing a significant threat to the states of Oaxaca and Guerrero.
The NHC reported maximum sustained winds of 220 km/h (140 mph) early on June 19th, local time, warning of potentially catastrophic wind damage and life-threatening flash flooding. A hurricane warning is in effect for a 500-kilometre stretch of coastline from Puerto Ángel to Acapulco.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum urged residents in the storm’s path to take the threat seriously, advising to, “Stay tuned to official communications, stay indoors, and do not go out. If you are in low-lying areas, near rivers or waterways, it is best to go to the shelters that have been set up for this situation.”
June 19 3AM CST: #Erick is very near the coast of Mexico. Extremely destructive winds are expected where the core moves onshore. Heavy rainfall will lead to life-threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in areas of steep terrain. For the latest visit https://t.co/Oy8uoeSibM pic.twitter.com/mchYCImuF6
— NHC Pacific (@NHC_Pacific) June 19, 2025
Erick is the first hurricane to make landfall in Mexico during the 2025 hurricane season, which runs from May through November. Meteorologists are forecasting an above-average season, with predictions of 8 to 11 hurricanes, including 4 to 6 major ones.
On 18th of June, Erick had intensified into a major Category 3 hurricane, and by 6:00 pm CST, a hurricane hunter aircraft confirmed it had reached major hurricane status. Scientists have expressed concern that Erick may become the strongest hurricane ever recorded to make landfall this early in the season along Mexico’s Pacific coast.
As of the latest advisory, the storm was located just 90 km (56 miles) from Puerto Ángel, with dangerous conditions already affecting the area. The nearby resort city of Acapulco, still recovering from the devastating impact of Category 5 Hurricane Otis in October 2023, is under serious threat, with flights suspended at its international airport.
Emergency preparations underway
- Over 18,000 first responders have been deployed.
- More than 2,000 temporary shelters have been activated across Chiapas, Guerrero, and Oaxaca.
- Authorities are coordinating evacuation and safety measures, especially in popular tourist areas.
- The National Water Commission (Conagua) has warned of rainfall up to 41 cm (16 inches) and waves reaching 6 meters (20 feet).
- Residents in mountainous regions are at risk of landslides and mudslides and have been advised to relocate to safer ground.
Officials are especially concerned about communities still vulnerable after Hurricane Otis, which caused over 50 deaths when it struck Acapulco in 2023 with little warning due to its rapid intensification.
Hurricane Erick is expected to bring
- Extremely strong winds
- Storm surges and massive waves
- Life-threatening flash floods
- Significant infrastructure and property damage
The NHC emphasized that Erick remains highly dangerous and urged continued caution, saying it represents a serious threat to life and property along the Mexican coast.
With landfall imminent, the coming hours are expected to be critical. Authorities continue to monitor the storm’s progress closely and are urging the public to comply with all safety and evacuation orders.
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