Hurricane Erick has rapidly intensified as it approaches Mexico's southwestern Pacific coastline, with meteorologists warning it could develop into a major hurricane before making landfall on June 19.

The storm strengthened from a tropical depression into a Category 1 hurricane on June 18, with maximum sustained winds reaching 140 kilometres per hour (85mph). Located approximately 205 kilometres (130 miles) south-southeast of Puerto Angel in Oaxaca state, Erick is moving northwest at 13 kilometres per hour (8mph) towards Mexico's vulnerable southern coast.

The US National Hurricane Center has issued stark warnings about the storm's potential impact. "Rapid strengthening is expected today, and Erick may reach major hurricane strength when it approaches the coast of southern Mexico Thursday," the centre stated.

Laura Velazquez, Mexico's national coordinator of civil protection, told a presidential press conference that "Erick could develop into a Category 2 hurricane in the first minutes of Thursday, and it could make landfall between Oaxaca and Guerrero during the day."

The hurricane threatens to bring exceptionally heavy rainfall across Oaxaca and Guerrero states, with up to 51 centimetres (20 inches) of precipitation possible. Meteorologists are predicting "life-threatening flooding and mudslides," particularly in mountainous terrain where the topography amplifies the risk. Lesser amounts of rainfall are expected to affect Chiapas, Michoacán, Colima and Jalisco states.

Forecasters expect Erick to achieve major hurricane status—defined as Category 3 or higher with winds exceeding 180 kilometres per hour (111mph)—by June 18 night or June 19 morning. A major hurricane classification significantly increases the potential for catastrophic damage.

Mexican authorities have mobilised extensive preparations for the storm's arrival. Guerrero Governor Evelyn Salgado announced the closure of all schools statewide and confirmed that 582 shelters have been prepared to accommodate potential evacuees. According to AFP, more than 2,000 temporary shelters have been established across the three most vulnerable states, whilst thousands of troops and electricity workers have been deployed to assist with potential clean-up operations.

President Claudia Sheinbaum on June 18 urged citizens to exercise extreme caution during her morning press conference. She advised people to avoid venturing outdoors and recommended that those living in low-lying areas or near rivers relocate to official shelters. During her daily briefing, she specifically warned residents in the hurricane's path to heed government instructions and seek safety in their homes or designated government shelters.

The storm's projected path places the famous resort city of Acapulco directly in its trajectory. Local police have been patrolling beaches and neighbourhoods with loudhailers, warning both residents and holidaymakers of the approaching danger. Port authorities have suspended shipping operations, with Acapulco's port closing on June 17 evening, and cancelled school classes along the affected coastline.

According to AP, the US National Hurricane Center has issued a hurricane warning from Acapulco to Puerto Angel, indicating that hurricane conditions are expected and that preparations to protect life and property should be completed urgently.

Acapulco's vulnerability to severe weather events has been tragically demonstrated in recent years. In October 2023, Hurricane Otis—a devastating Category 5 storm—struck the resort after rapidly intensifying, killing at least 52 people with 32 others reported missing. The hurricane caused widespread destruction to the city's hotel infrastructure, with nearly all resort properties suffering severe damage. The government faced criticism over its handling of Hurricane Otis, with authorities accused of providing insufficient warning about the rapidly intensifying storm's threat. Many boats were lost in Acapulco's harbour during that disaster. More recently, Hurricane John claimed approximately 15 lives when it hit the area as a Category 3 storm in September of last year.

Mexico routinely experiences significant tropical weather systems between May and November, affecting both its Pacific and Atlantic coastlines. However, the rapid intensification of Hurricane Erick has prompted heightened concern among meteorological experts and emergency management officials.

Velazquez confirmed that authorities have activated over 500 temporary shelters and are coordinating evacuation plans for tourists visiting the region's popular beaches and resort destinations. She warned that Erick would bring "torrential" rains to the affected states and highlighted the particular vulnerability of the mountainous coastal region, which is prone to mudslides and contains numerous rivers that could overflow their banks.

Reuters reported that Mexico's national water commission, Conagua, has warned the anticipated rainfall in Oaxaca and Guerrero could trigger dangerous landslides and severe flooding, particularly in mountainous and coastal areas where drainage systems may become overwhelmed.

As Hurricane Erick continues its approach towards the Mexican coast, authorities remain focused on minimising casualties and property damage through comprehensive emergency preparedness measures and public safety communications.