Travellers planning to visit Mexico’s Pacific coast have been issued a stark warning by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), as Hurricane Erick intensifies rapidly and prepares to make landfall. The storm is forecast to hit western Oaxaca or eastern Guerrero, including the popular beach destination Acapulco, bringing life-threatening flash floods, damaging winds, and dangerous mudslides.
According to the latest advisory from the FCDO, Hurricane Erick is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane before it makes landfall on Thursday, June 19. Meteorologists at the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) are closely monitoring the storm, warning that its path could mirror that of Hurricane Otis, which devastated the Acapulco region in October 2023.
Travellers Urged to Take Immediate Precautions
In its updated travel guidance, the UK Foreign Office stated:
“Hurricane Erick is intensifying and forecast to become a major hurricane when it makes landfall in western Oaxaca or eastern Guerrero on Thursday, 19 June. It is expected to bring damaging winds and life-threatening flash floods and mudslides, particularly in areas of steep terrain. You should monitor local and international weather updates and follow the advice of authorities and your tour operator, including any evacuation orders.”
Travellers already in affected areas or those scheduled to arrive in the coming days are strongly advised to remain in contact with their hotels or tour providers, confirm local emergency protocols, and have a contingency plan in case of evacuation.
Acapulco in the Projected Path
According to CNN Weather, the current forecast track of Hurricane Erick places its centre near the city of Acapulco, which is still recovering from the destruction caused by Hurricane Otis less than two years ago. Otis made landfall as a Category 5 storm and caused widespread power outages, infrastructure damage, and significant disruptions to travel and tourism.
Local officials in Guerrero have already begun issuing preliminary warnings and are preparing emergency shelters. Authorities are expected to implement evacuation orders for high-risk coastal and mountainous communities within the next 24 to 48 hours.
Risks Include Flooding, Landslides, and Infrastructure Disruption
Hurricane Erick is likely to unleash heavy rainfall exceeding 10 inches (250 mm) in some areas, especially those with steep terrain. This raises the risk of rapid flooding and landslides—a significant danger in the mountain-lined regions of Oaxaca and Guerrero. In addition to coastal surge and wind damage, local transport networks, roads, and airports may face temporary closures or delays.
Airlines flying to and from southern Mexican airports—including Acapulco International Airport—are expected to cancel or reroute flights during the storm’s peak, potentially affecting thousands of travellers. Tour operators and resort managers are also on alert, coordinating safety plans and communicating updates to guests.
Hurricane Season in Mexico: What Tourists Should Know
The Mexican hurricane season typically runs from June to November, with the Pacific coast frequently experiencing severe storms during this period. The UK Foreign Office has urged travellers to review its tropical cyclones advisory page for safety tips and preparedness measures.
Key recommendations for travellers include:
- Register with your embassy if travelling to high-risk zones.
- Carry hard copies of travel documents and store emergency contacts offline.
- Have a hurricane kit ready, including water, snacks, power banks, and basic first aid.
- Follow official alerts from trusted sources like the National Hurricane Center or Mexico’s Protección Civil.
Local Emergency Preparations Underway
In response to the approaching storm, Mexican civil protection authorities have begun deploying emergency response teams along the coastline and inland flood-prone areas. Temporary shelters have been set up, and residents in vulnerable communities are being briefed on evacuation routes and shelter protocols.
Hotels and resorts in the Acapulco area have activated emergency communication systems and are issuing precautionary guidance to guests. “Safety is our top priority. We are monitoring the storm hour by hour and have staff trained to assist tourists in case of an evacuation,” said a spokesperson for a major resort in Acapulco.
Travel Disruption and Insurance Coverage
Travellers should verify whether their travel insurance policies cover natural disasters, as claims related to storm-related delays or cancellations can vary depending on the provider and policy details. Travellers who booked through tour operators may also be entitled to refunds or rebooking options in the event of significant disruption.
The UK’s Foreign Office and travel associations such as ABTA recommend that British citizens register with the Locate service (or provide itinerary details to family/friends), check airline status updates frequently, and avoid non-essential travel to areas under active warning.
Conclusion: Caution Urged as Hurricane Erick Approaches
With Hurricane Erick gaining strength and heading directly toward key tourist zones in Mexico’s Pacific coast, travellers are advised to act swiftly and responsibly. While many parts of Mexico remain safe for tourism, the western regions of Oaxaca, Guerrero, and Acapulco are currently facing a severe weather emergency.
The situation remains fluid, and the UK government continues to monitor developments. Travellers are urged to heed official instructions, stay informed via local and international channels, and prioritize safety above all else during this period of heightened risk.
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