Tropical Storm Erick, which formed in the eastern Pacific Ocean early Tuesday (June 17), is expected to rapidly intensify into a hurricane as it approaches the southern coast of Mexico. As of 12 p.m. CST, Erick was located about 265 miles southeast of Punta Angel, Mexico, with maximum sustained winds of 50 miles per hour, moving west-northwest at 9 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).
Erick is the fifth named storm of the 2025 eastern Pacific hurricane season and could become the first to make landfall. The NHC has issued a hurricane watch from Bahias de Huatulco to Punta Maldonado, with a tropical storm watch extending eastward to Salina Cruz.
The storm threatens to bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and life-threatening flooding across parts of Mexico and Central America. Areas in Erick’s path, including Chiapas, Oaxaca, and Guerrero, could experience up to 15 inches of rain, while coastal regions of Guatemala and parts of El Salvador are also at risk. Meteorologist Jesse Ferrel noted on X that Erick could hit Mexico with winds reaching 125 mph and up to 20 inches of rain.
The NHC expects Erick to reach hurricane strength by Wednesday (June 18). The storm’s projected path could bring heavy rain as far north as Texas, although the main impact is expected along the Mexican coast. Residents in affected areas are advised to stay informed and prepare for potential severe weather conditions.
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