Hurricane Erick made landfall on the coast of Oaxaca, Mexico, early today, raising concerns among authorities regarding the potential for intense rains, floods, and mudslides that could pose significant risks to life and property.
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The storm made its entrance around 5:30 AM local time in the town of Santiago Pinotepa Nacional as a Category 3 hurricane, boasting maximum sustained winds of 205 km/h and gusts reaching 250 km/h. This was reported by Mexico’s National Water Commission (Conagua). As scientists have noted, “Early season hurricanes like Erick can often be the most intense.” This storm marks the first to make landfall in Mexico during this hurricane season, which spans from May to November.
Forecasts indicate that this season could be particularly active, with expectations of between eight to eleven hurricanes, and four to six of those potentially reaching major hurricane status.
In preparation for Hurricane Erick, many residents have taken refuge in temporary shelters ahead of the storm’s approach. The storm’s center is projected to move inland across southern Mexico throughout the day, with winds likely to cause severe damage, especially near its core. As the US National Hurricane Center reported, “The risk associated with these strong winds cannot be underestimated.”
Areas in Oaxaca and Guerrero may face an alarming amount of rainfall, with forecasts predicting up to 41 cm (16 inches). The NHC further stated, “Erick is anticipated to rapidly weaken as it traverses the mountainous regions of Mexico, likely dissipating by tonight or early Friday.”
However, they cautioned, “Heavy rainfall will create life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in steep terrains.” Local authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and heed safety recommendations.
The potential dangers of the storm have led to significant preparations along the coast, with Mexico’s Ministry of Environment and Conagua issuing warnings about towering waves reaching up to 10 meters (33 feet) high. Unfortunate reports have emerged from local media and social networks showing flooded streets in popular tourist destinations along Mexico’s Pacific coast, including Huatulco.
Oaxaca Governor Salomon Jara took to social media platform X, urging residents to adhere to the directives from local officials, emphasizing that shelters are available for those in vulnerable areas. In a proactive measure, Mexican authorities are coordinating evacuation efforts for tourists in popular beach destinations, including Acapulco.
This is particularly poignant as just last October, Acapulco experienced the devastating effects of Hurricane Otis, a Category 5 storm that tragically resulted in at least 50 fatalities. Similarly, Hurricane John, a Category 3 storm, struck Acapulco in September of the previous year, claiming about 15 lives.
As storm preparations continue, the community remains focused on safety, underscoring the importance of preparedness during these unpredictable seasons.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
