In Acapulco, Mexico, the coastal city continues to brace for Hurricane Erick, which intensified into a Category 3 storm Wednesday night. The hurricane is predicted to unleash strong winds, heavy rainfall, and potentially a dangerous storm surge as it approaches the southern Mexican coastline.
Having quickly escalated from a Category 1 hurricane, Erick’s maximum sustained winds reached 125 mph (200 kph) by evening. The hurricane was positioned approximately 55 miles (85 kilometers) southwest of Puerto Angel and about 125 miles (200 kilometers) southeast of Punta Maldonado, advancing northwest at a speed of 9 mph (15 kph). The U.S. National Hurricane Center, based in Miami, projected the hurricane to make landfall Thursday morning. With wind speeds exceeding 111 mph (180 kph), Category 3 hurricanes can cause severe damage, and Erick is expected to further intensify.
The storm’s predicted trajectory places its center close to Acapulco, a resort city still reeling from the devastation caused by Hurricane Otis in October 2023. Otis, a Category 5 hurricane, took the area by surprise, causing massive destruction to infrastructure and resulting in at least 52 deaths and 32 missing people as it battered the region.
Aware of the potential threat, Acapulco’s streets saw a significant presence of National Guard and police on Wednesday, with utility company crews clearing drainage systems. While some beaches were shut, sunbathers continued to enjoy the coast ahead of the impending storm. Along the shoreline, boat owners lined up to hoist their vessels out of the water in anticipation of Erick’s arrival.
Local boat operator Adrián Acevedo Durantes expressed caution, having witnessed the destruction brought by Otis. He emphasized the surprise nature of Otis’s intensity and the growing unpredictability of hurricanes due to climate change. The port authorities have mandated that no one remain on their boats during the storm, recalling losses during Otis when many opted to stay at sea.
Meanwhile, Acapulco residents rushed to complete storm preparations. Francisco Casarubio, a choreographer, gathered supplies like eggs, rice, beans, and canned goods, having experienced power outages and flooding during Otis. Authorities warned that Erick could bring up to 16 inches (40 centimeters) of rain to areas including Oaxaca and Guerrero, with potential for mudslides and flood risks.
Guerrero Governor Evelyn Salgado announced the closure of schools and advised fishing and tourism operators to safeguard their vessels. Acapulco’s port was closed Tuesday night, and shelters were prepared for potential evacuees. President Claudia Sheinbaum advised those in Erick’s path to follow government instructions and take refuge in their homes or designated shelters.
Despite warnings, some surfers at Zicatela beach defied red flag advisories to stay out of the water and continued to ride the waves. In Erick’s path, Puerto Escondido fishermen began pulling their boats from the sea as precautionary measures took hold. The hurricane’s rapid intensification reflects changing weather patterns, challenging disaster forecasting and preparedness efforts.