Three southern states in Mexico are bracing for Hurricane Erick, expected to hit as a Category 3 storm early Thursday. President Claudia Sheinbaum urged residents to stay updated and follow instructions, especially those in vulnerable areas.
Hurricane Erick Approaches Mexico’s Southern Coast: Category 3 Threat Imminent
Hurricane Erick Approaches Mexico’s Southern Coast: Category 3 Threat Imminent
Authorities caution public ahead of Hurricane Erick’s landfall; shelters established and emergency measures implemented.
October 20, 2023, 9:30 a.m. ET
As Hurricane Erick approaches land, officials in Mexico's southern regions are taking urgent measures as the storm is expected to make landfall as a dangerous Category 3 hurricane. The Presidents' advisory emphasizes the importance of adhering to official directives and encourages residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas to seek shelter.
The government announced the establishment of over 2,000 temporary shelters in the states of Chiapas, Guerrero, and Oaxaca in anticipation of the storm. Sheinbaum explicitly stated, “If you are in low-lying areas, near rivers or waterways, it is best to go to the shelters that have already been set up.” She also warned the public to refrain from unnecessary travel and to stay indoors during the storm.
On Wednesday, the storm was classified as a Category 2, with winds capable of causing significant damage including uprooting trees, damaging roofs, and causing power outages. Authorities are closely examining the water levels in rivers and dams, with vigilance against potential flash floods.
Forecasts indicate that the storm will impact regions from Puerto Ángel in Oaxaca to Punta Maldonado in Guerrero, with the potential for far-reaching effects, impacting areas like Bahías de Huatulco and the popular resort city of Acapulco.
This year's hurricane season has already presented challenges, with Erick marking the fifth named storm in the Eastern Pacific. The season, which continues until November 30, follows a notably destructive year that saw Hurricane Otis wreak havoc in Acapulco, emphasizing the necessity for heightened alertness and readiness in the face of severe weather.
As Hurricane Erick approaches land, officials in Mexico's southern regions are taking urgent measures as the storm is expected to make landfall as a dangerous Category 3 hurricane. The Presidents' advisory emphasizes the importance of adhering to official directives and encourages residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas to seek shelter.
The government announced the establishment of over 2,000 temporary shelters in the states of Chiapas, Guerrero, and Oaxaca in anticipation of the storm. Sheinbaum explicitly stated, “If you are in low-lying areas, near rivers or waterways, it is best to go to the shelters that have already been set up.” She also warned the public to refrain from unnecessary travel and to stay indoors during the storm.
On Wednesday, the storm was classified as a Category 2, with winds capable of causing significant damage including uprooting trees, damaging roofs, and causing power outages. Authorities are closely examining the water levels in rivers and dams, with vigilance against potential flash floods.
Forecasts indicate that the storm will impact regions from Puerto Ángel in Oaxaca to Punta Maldonado in Guerrero, with the potential for far-reaching effects, impacting areas like Bahías de Huatulco and the popular resort city of Acapulco.
This year's hurricane season has already presented challenges, with Erick marking the fifth named storm in the Eastern Pacific. The season, which continues until November 30, follows a notably destructive year that saw Hurricane Otis wreak havoc in Acapulco, emphasizing the necessity for heightened alertness and readiness in the face of severe weather.
