ACAPULCO, Mexico (AP) – Authorities in southern Mexico are currently assessing the damage and monitoring rising river levels due to heavy rains from the remnants of Hurricane Erick, which made landfall on a sparsely populated section of the Pacific coast. This storm has reignited concerns about potential landslides and flooding in the region, especially following the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Otis in October 2023, which left a lasting mark on the area.
Hurricane Erick made landfall on the morning of June 19, 2025, as a Category 3 major hurricane between the resort cities of Acapulco and Puerto Escondido. Authorities reported multiple incidents of landslides, blocked highways, downed power lines, and flooding, creating a serious situation for coastal residents. Tragically, a 1-year-old boy drowned in a swollen river, marking the storm's first confirmed fatality.
Despite the consistent rain in Acapulco, some residents and tourists took to the streets as shops and businesses gradually reopened. Many were still reeling from the effects of Hurricane Otis, which caused significant destruction and resulted in at least 52 fatalities. This history heightened the vigilance of locals as they prepared for Erick's arrival.
As the storm continued its passage through the coastal mountains, heavy rainfall remained a major concern for areas surrounding Acapulco. The U.S. National Hurricane Center reported that Erick had weakened to a low-pressure area with maximum sustained winds of approximately 45 kph (30 mph) as it progressed northwestward. The storm's path was expected to dissipate over the mountains in the state of Michoacan later that evening.
Officials indicated that up to 40 centimeters (16 inches) of rain could fall across the states of Oaxaca and Guerrero, raising alarms about potential flooding and mudslides, particularly in regions with steep terrains. Late Thursday, Guerrero state Civil Defense Director Roberto Arroyo confirmed the tragic death of the young boy, who slipped from his mother's arms while she attempted to traverse a fast-flowing river.
As conditions began to improve, life in Acapulco slowly resumed normalcy, with restaurants, shops, and supermarkets opening their doors. However, schools across Guerrero were set to remain closed on Friday, as officials focused on assessing the damage, clearing debris, and monitoring river conditions. One local resident, Juan Carlos Castañeda, reflected on the storm's impact, saying, “Many of us were frightened, but now it has passed.”
In the nearby fishing village of Barra Vieja, residents found themselves staying indoors due to the heavy rains and strong winds. However, some ventured out, like Perla Rosas, who braved the weather to reach her job at a convenience store, expressing a sense of relief that the worst had passed.
Residents of Acapulco took precautions ahead of Hurricane Erick's approach, driven by the memories of Hurricane Otis. The storm brought significant dread as it caught many unprepared in 2023, reinforcing the resolve of the local population as they navigated the aftermath of yet another natural disaster.
The resilience of the communities affected by Hurricane Erick remains evident, as individuals slowly return to their routines while remaining vigilant about potential future threats posed by the weather.
