Hurricane Erick slams into Mexico as Category 3 storm: are you in the danger zone? Flash floods, red alerts, and evacuations hit Oaxaca and Guerrero — here’s what you need to know

Hurricane Erick made landfall on Mexico’s southern coast Thursday morning as a Category 3 storm, with powerful winds near 125 mph and heavy rainfall triggering flash floods and mudslides across Oaxaca and Guerrero. Originally a Category 4 hurricane, Erick weakened slightly before hitting near Punta Maldonado, forcing evacuations, school closures, and shelter setups. Authorities issued a red alert and warned of up to 16 inches of rain, dangerous waves, and storm surge. Over 2,000 shelters were opened. President Claudia Sheinbaum urged residents to stay safe, indoors, and away from rivers and flood-prone zones.