The state of Guerrero in Mexico has reported that the number of people dead and missing due to Hurricane Otis has risen to close to 100. Last week, Acapulco, a Mexican Pacific resort city, was severely impacted by the Category 5 storm with wind speeds reaching 165 miles per hour. The hurricane caused extensive flooding, damage to properties, disruption in communication and transportation, and led to looting as the city’s population faced desperate circumstances.
Evelyn Salgado, the governor of Guerrero, informed that 45 people have been confirmed dead and 47 others are missing as per the figures provided by state prosecutors. Mexico’s federal civil protection authorities later updated the total number of deaths to 48, with 43 in Acapulco and 5 in the nearby Coyuca de Benitez. Among the deceased, there were individuals from the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada.
During a phone call with President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, Governor Salgado emphasized the need to ensure basic goods are delivered to the affected population in Acapulco. Responding to the situation, the Mexican government has sent 17,000 members of the armed forces to maintain order and distribute food and supplies. The estimated cost of damage caused by Hurricane Otis is expected to reach $15 billion.
However, challenges persist in providing assistance to the affected residents. In the La Frontera neighborhood, a line of around 150 people was waiting for water provided by local authorities. Frustrated residents holding empty water containers expressed their concerns over the hours-long wait, stating that the available water would not be sufficient for everyone. Instances of street assaults have also been reported due to the desperation among the affected population.
This disaster in Acapulco occurred just months before Mexico’s upcoming presidential election. President Lopez Obrador faced criticism for his response to Hurricane Otis, with some accusing him of downplaying the severity of the situation for political reasons.
Reporting by Jose Decavele; Additional reporting by Daina Beth Solomon; Writing by Dave Graham; Editing by Jonathan Oatis
