Hurricane John Strikes Mexico’s Southern Pacific Coast

As Hurricane John made landfall on Mexico’s southern Pacific coast, it caught authorities off guard with its rapid intensification, strengthening from a tropical storm to a major hurricane in just a matter of hours. The storm hit land as a Category 3 hurricane, bringing fierce winds and heavy rainfall to the tourist hub of Oaxaca state.

Authorities scrambled to update guidance to residents and keep pace with the stronger storm as the U.S. National Hurricane Center warned of “life-threatening” storm surges and flash floods along the Pacific coast near Oaxaca. Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador urged people to seek higher ground and take shelter to protect themselves.

AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Matt Benz attributed John’s unexpected surge in strength to warmer oceans, which provide fuel for hurricanes. Rapid intensification has become more common in modern times, posing new challenges for scientists, authorities, and residents in the affected areas.

Residents in Oaxaca’s coastal cities prepared for the storm as authorities ordered evacuations and the suspension of work on main beaches. Schools were closed in some coastal zones, and the state government set up shelters and deployed personnel to address the emergency.

While the storm’s impact was felt immediately, there are long-term concerns about the aftermath and potential damage caused by John. The region had previously experienced devastation from rapidly intensifying hurricanes like Otis, which struck Acapulco last year.

As the cleanup and recovery efforts begin, authorities are working to improve early alert systems to better prepare for future storms. The impact of Hurricane John is expected to be felt for weeks to come, underscoring the importance of proactive measures and emergency preparedness in the face of natural disasters.