Hurricane Erick rapidly intensified off Mexico’s southern Pacific coast, doubling in strength in less than a day and gaining 50 mph in 18 hours.

Scientists say such rapid intensification is becoming more common due to climate change.

Erick is expected to become the strongest early-season storm to hit that region, with ideal conditions fueling its growth.

While comparisons are being made to 2023’s deadly Hurricane Otis, experts note Erick is less dangerous due to cooler subsurface waters and earlier timing, the Associated Press has reported.

Still, warm surface waters and moist air are creating near-perfect conditions for the storm’s continued strengthening.

Written by B.C. Begley