Tropical Storm Erick is moving off the Pacific coast of Mexico and has the potential to strengthen into a hurricane, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and Mexico’s National Meteorological Service. Forecasts indicate that Erick could become a Category 1 hurricane by Wednesday around noon, positioned approximately 185 km south of Puerto Ángel, Oaxaca. By early Thursday, it may intensify to a Category 2 hurricane when located 75 km south of Lagunas de Chacahua, Oaxaca, before making landfall to the northwest of Punta Maldonado, Guerrero.
The NHC suggests that Erick is expected to reach hurricane status by 6 a.m. on Wednesday, with landfall anticipated around 6 a.m. on Thursday. Meteorologists predict rapid strengthening over the next couple of days, indicating that Erick could become a major hurricane as it approaches the southern coast of Mexico between Wednesday night and Thursday.
The conditions are favorable for quick intensification, with very warm ocean temperatures, low wind shear, and a humid atmosphere contributing to this development. Major hurricanes are defined as those with winds of 178 km/h (111 mph) or higher.
In addition to hurricane conditions, the cyclone may produce heavy rainfall across Central America and southern Mexico, leading to potential flooding and landslides. A dangerous storm surge is also expected in coastal areas where the storm makes landfall. Currently, Erick is approximately 325 km south-southwest of Puerto Chiapas and is tracking parallel to the coast.
Mexican authorities have issued a hurricane watch from Bahías de Huatulco to Punta Maldonado, warning of intense rainfall, strong winds, and elevated surf in states including Oaxaca, Guerrero, Chiapas, and southern Veracruz.
It is crucial for residents in the affected areas to stay informed through official sources and prepare for possible hazardous conditions as Erick approaches.