Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo urged residents along the coasts of Oaxaca and Guerrero to exercise extreme caution and stay informed through official channels as Hurricane Erick made landfall early Thursday morning as a Category 3 storm. The hurricane struck near Santiago Pinotepa Nacional, Oaxaca, between 5:00 and 6:00 a.m. Authorities expect a more comprehensive damage assessment in the coming hours.
Speaking at her daily press conference, known as “Las Mañaneras del Pueblo,” Sheinbaum reported that the hurricane has since weakened to a Category 1 system. However, she warned that it continues to pose a threat due to heavy rainfall and strong winds, especially in mountainous regions of Guerrero and extending into Michoacán. She thanked citizens for responding to evacuation calls and taking shelter in homes or temporary shelters.
In coordination with the state governments of Oaxaca and Guerrero and the Armed Forces, the federal government has deployed over 21,000 troops from the Ministry of National Defense and 9,000 personnel from the Navy. Technical teams from the National Water Commission (Conagua), the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications and Transportation (SICT), and the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) have also been mobilized with hundreds of specialized units.
The National Civil Protection Coordinator, Laura Velázquez Alzúa, confirmed that Hurricane Erick is still affecting at least 14 municipalities in Oaxaca and six in Guerrero. So far, no fatalities have been reported. About 100 individuals have taken refuge in shelters, and high-risk zones remain under constant monitoring. Governors Evelyn Salgado (Guerrero) and Salomón Jara (Oaxaca) confirmed the deployment of thousands of rescue workers, machinery, and emergency units.
President Sheinbaum praised the immediate activation of emergency response protocols, including the DN-III-E Plan and the Navy Plan, emphasizing that their implementation does not require prior approval and reflects institutional preparedness. She concluded by stating that these efforts demonstrate the strength of Mexico’s institutions and the Armed Forces’ unwavering commitment to public safety.
