Hurricane Erick Makes Landfall in Southern Mexico

The storm made landfall near Pinotepa Nacional with sustained winds of 125 mph (205 km/h), according to Mexico’s national weather service and the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC). Erick had briefly strengthened to a Category 4 hurricane earlier in the day, with peak winds reaching 145 mph (230 km/h), before weakening slightly prior to landfall.

Early season and rapid strengthening

Erick became the earliest major hurricane (Category 3 or higher) to strike Mexico’s Pacific coast in recorded history. Meteorologists attribute its rapid intensification to unusually warm ocean temperatures, a pattern increasingly associated with climate change. The storm doubled in strength in less than 24 hours—a rate that is becoming more common in both the Atlantic and Pacific basins.

Damage and impact

Officials reported widespread power outages, road closures due to mudslides, and significant structural damage in low-lying coastal communities. Local media confirmed one fatality: a 1-year-old child who was swept away in a rising river in San Marcos, Guerrero.

Several towns in Oaxaca and Guerrero experienced up to 16 inches (40 cm) of rainfall, with warnings still in effect for continued flash floods and landslides. Emergency response teams were deployed across the region, and temporary shelters were opened in several municipalities.

Comparisons to Hurricane Otis

Many in the region drew comparisons to Hurricane Otis, which devastated Acapulco in October 2023 as a surprise Category 5 storm. That hurricane left more than 50 people dead and caused billions in damages. Authorities this time acted early, issuing hurricane and tropical storm warnings, closing schools, and urging residents to evacuate high-risk areas.

Travel advisory for Caribbean tourists

While Hurricane Erick struck Mexico’s Pacific coast and does not directly threaten the Caribbean region, travelers should be aware of the early start to the 2025 hurricane season and increasing storm intensity across tropical zones. Caribbean-bound tourists are advised to:

• Monitor official weather alerts during the June–November hurricane season.
• Book flexible travel plans or comprehensive travel insurance.
• Stay informed of regional conditions, particularly when flying through Mexico or Central America.

The Caribbean remains open and welcoming to visitors, but as recent storms demonstrate, early season preparedness is key.