Hurricane Erick Strengthens, Threatens Southern Mexico with Heavy Rain and Winds

PUERTO ANGEL, Mexico — Hurricane Erick strengthened into a hurricane early Wednesday morning, June 18, 2025, about 160 miles south-southeast of Puerto Angel, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).

At its latest update, Erick reached maximum sustained winds of 75 mph, officially classifying it as a hurricane. The storm formed in the Eastern Pacific and is expected to make landfall in Southern Mexico later this week, creating concerns of heavy rain and flooding in the region.

Erick is the fifth named storm of the 2025 Eastern Pacific hurricane season and could potentially be the first named storm to make landfall in either the Atlantic or Eastern Pacific basins this year. Mexican authorities have issued a hurricane warning from Puerto Angel to Acapulco, with additional alerts for tropical weather south and north of the expected landfall area.

The NHC has raised concerns about life-threatening coastal flooding due to storm surge and warned that heavy swells from Erick could reach the southern Mexican coast by Wednesday evening. Authorities predict that areas in Guerrero and Oaxaca may see rainfall totals ranging from 8 to 16 inches, with localized amounts up to 20 inches, leading to flash floods and mudslides.

Forecast models indicate that Erick may continue to gain strength as it approaches the coast, potentially becoming a major hurricane as it nears land. A major hurricane is classified as Category 3 or higher, and if Erick intensifies as expected, it could create significant hazards.

The storm reached tropical storm strength on June 17, with an initial maximum wind speed of 45 mph. As it began its northwest track, it moved slowly but with dangerous conditions forecasted for Tuesday evening and into Thursday.

The NHC stresses that residents in affected areas should prepare for severe weather, including dangerous surf conditions and strong winds. This developing weather situation will be monitored closely, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.