Hurricane Erick Upgraded to Category 4: Mexico Urges People to Stay Indoors

Hurricane Erick has become a powerful Category 4 storm, bringing extremely dangerous winds to parts of southern Mexico. The US National Hurricane Center gave the warning on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, saying the storm is now a major threat to lives and property.

Erick is located about 70 miles southwest of Puerto Angel and 90 miles southeast of Punta Maldonado. It is heading toward Mexico’s Pacific coast with winds, heavy rain, and rising sea levels.

Mexican President Urges Evacuation in Risk Areas

President Claudia Sheinbaum spoke to the nation last night. She said all activities in the danger zones have been suspended. People living near rivers or in low-lying areas should move to emergency shelters.

“If you are near rivers or in flood zones, go to the shelters set up for safety,” she said.

Coast Hit by Rising Waves, Restaurants Flooded

In Puerto Escondido, huge waves were already crashing onto the shore Monday night. Fishing boats pulled onto land were swamped. The beach disappeared under the waves, and water rushed into several seaside restaurants.

Even as red flags warned people to stay away, some surfers were seen riding waves at Zicatela Beach, one of Mexico’s most popular surf spots.

Torrential Rain and Mudslide Risk

Meteorologists warned that the states of Oaxaca and Guerrero could receive up to 16 inches of rainfall. Lighter rain is also expected in Chiapas, Michoacan, Colima, and Jalisco.

Laura Velazquez, head of Mexico’s civil defense, said the heavy rain could cause dangerous mudslides and floods, especially in the mountainous areas.

“This is a very serious storm. People must listen to official instructions and stay safe,” she said.