by Manal Barakat, SeaNewsEditor

A new tropical storm, named Erick, has formed in the Pacific basin and is projected to become a hurricane this week.

Initially classified as a tropical depression, the storm has intensified rapidly, according to the United States National Hurricane Centre (NHC).

It is expected to gain significant strength as it approaches the southern coast of Mexico.

Erick is forecast to bring heavy rainfall to parts of Central America and southern Mexico throughout the week, with concerns about heavy flooding and mudslides in some areas.

Additionally, coastal regions might experience flooding due to storm surges, particularly near the area where the storm’s centre is expected to make landfall.

Current projections from the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System (GDACS) suggest landfall will occur in Mexico on Thursday, 19 June.

The impact on ports in the region is not yet clear, but operational interruptions are expected in bad weather conditions.

For the latest port and vessel statuses or situation updates, please refer to the seaexplorer alert map.

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