Hurricane Erick Experiences Weakening as Mexico's Residents Undertake Debris Removal
Hurricane Erick slammed into Mexico's southern state of Oaxaca as a Category 3 storm early Thursday, downgrading from a Category 4 just before landfall. The storm roared ashore with wind speeds of up to 205 kph (approximately 130 mph).
By mid-afternoon, Erick had weakened into a tropical storm, with sustained winds dropping to 85 kph. Authorities warned that the torrential rains from Erick remained treacherous. The US National Hurricane Center issued a dire warning of life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in regions with steep terrain.
They anticipate Guerrero state could experience up to 8 inches (around 20 centimeters) of rain, while neighboring Oaxaca and Michoacan may receive up to 4 inches.
After the hurricane made landfall, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated, "The people have responded brilliantly so far." Reports showed flooded streets, damaged boats, and buildings in Oaxaca, yet residents of coastal towns are already cleaning up the wreckage.
No immediate reports of fatalities have been received, according to Laura Velázquez, head of Mexico's civil protection agency. Two hospitals had been damaged, and the power supply was compromised. However, by late morning, more than 123,000 users in Oaxaca had lost power, with 26% having their service restored.
Oaxaca Governor Salomon Jara confirmed that roads and highways had been severely damaged. The specific rainfall amounts in the Mexican states of Oaxaca, Guerrero, and Michoacán from Hurricane Erick are not provided in the search results. However, Erick's impact included heavy rain capable of causing flooding and mudslides in these states, consistent with major hurricanes making landfall in this region.
Revised by: Alex Berry
The media has been sharing updates on the heavy rainfall and flooding caused by Hurricane Erick in Mexico, particularly in states like Oaxaca and Guerrero. Residents are advised to be vigilant against potential mudslides, given the steep terrain in these regions.
