Hurricane Erick Unleashes Destruction on Mexico's Oaxaca Coastline

Hurricane Erick struck Oaxaca, Mexico, as a category 3 hurricane, risking floods and mudslides. With sustained winds of 205 km/h, Erick could become the season's most intense storm. Residents experienced severe flooding, prompting evacuations. Authorities warn of 16 inches of rain in Oaxaca and Guerrero. Decline expected by Friday.

Hurricane Erick made a forceful entry on the Oaxaca coast of Mexico early Thursday morning, posing significant threats of intense rain, life-threatening floods, and mudslides. Local authorities confirmed landfall around 5:30 am in Santiago Pinotepa Nacional, classifying Erick as a category 3 hurricane with powerful winds reaching 205 km/h.

As the first significant storm of Mexico's hurricane season, experts fear Erick could set a precedent for an unusually intense series of hurricanes on the Pacific coast, expected to deliver unprecedented turbulence this season.

By early Friday, Hurricane Erick is anticipated to weaken rapidly over Mexico's mountainous regions. Authorities warn residents to stay alert as efforts to evacuate tourists, especially in Oaxaca and Acapulco, gain momentum following the devastation of Mexico's picturesque coast.

(With inputs from agencies.)