Assessing the Damage from Hurricane Erick in Mexico

Authorities and citizens in southern Mexico are evaluating the impact as flood waters from the storm's aftermath threaten the region.

Concerns about landslides and rising waters remained high following the dissipation of Erick after it struck early Thursday.

Two fatalities are reported—a toddler swept away by a swollen river in Guerrero and a man electrocuted during cleanup efforts in Oaxaca, according to officials.

A Category 3 hurricane upon arrival, Erick made landfall between the popular tourist destinations of Acapulco and Puerto Escondido.

Initially reaching Category 4 status, Erick weakened to Category 2 before hitting land.

Erick's rapid intensification, doubling its power in less than 24 hours, posed forecasting challenges, with the previous year seeing 34 similar occurrences, per the US National Hurricane Center.

Reports mention landslides, blocked roads, and power outages, hitting hardest in Acapulco. Power was cut to over 120,000 homes at the height of the storm.

Francisca Avila expressed despair as her community faced widespread destruction, leaving many without basic necessities.

In Puerto Escondido, locals salvaged boats and cleared fallen trees. The town faced significant power and communication outages.

By Thursday evening, the remnants had dissipated over Michoacan's mountainous terrain.

Reopening efforts began in Acapulco for various businesses, but educational institutions stayed closed as evaluations of the situation continued.

Juan Carlos Castañeda noted that fear lingered after the storm's passing, its memory etched in the wake of a previous tragic storm.

In Barra Vieja, residents remained indoors as high winds and rain battered the coastal area.

Despite the elements, Perla Rosas braved the conditions, opting to fulfill her work duties at a local store.

Erick marked the first significant hurricane of the Eastern Pacific season, which spans from mid-May to the end of November.