Fatalities and Destruction After Hurricane Otis Hits Acapulco
ACAPULCO, Mexico – The aftermath of Hurricane Otis, a powerful Category 5 storm that struck the Mexican Pacific resort city of Acapulco last week, has left a trail of devastation. The government of the southern state of Guerrero has reported that the number of dead and missing has climbed to 100.
The Impact of Hurricane Otis
Hurricane Otis unleashed its fury on Acapulco, bringing winds of 165 miles per hour and causing widespread destruction. The storm flooded the city, ripped off roofs, submerged vehicles, and disrupted communication and transportation. As a result, the city’s population, nearly 900,000 people, faced a dire situation.
Loss of Life and Desperation
Desperation for food and water led to looting in Acapulco. The government of Guerrero confirmed that 46 people lost their lives, while 54 others remain missing. Among the deceased are a U.S. citizen, a Briton, and a Canadian. Meanwhile, many residents are still struggling to rebuild their shattered lives.
Plea for Assistance
Rumualda Hernandez, a resident of Acapulco, described the terrifying experience of the floodwaters rising above her head as the storm raged. She pleaded with the government to send help, emphasizing the urgent need for assistance in the wake of the disaster.
Search and Rescue Efforts
Fishermen and tourism yacht workers gathered at Acapulco’s Playa Honda, searching for missing colleagues and friends. They expressed concerns that officials were not doing enough to locate those who were still unaccounted for. The recovery process has already resulted in the discovery of several bodies.
Aid and Recovery Efforts
President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador called on local authorities to ensure the delivery of basic necessities to the population of Acapulco. The estimated cost of the damage caused by Hurricane Otis is expected to reach $15 billion. To address the immediate needs of affected residents, Mexico has deployed 17,000 armed forces personnel to maintain order and distribute food and supplies.
Challenges and Urgency
Access to food and water continues to be a challenge in Acapulco. The retail group ANTAD has urged the government to intensify efforts to prevent looting at stores operated by its members. Desperate residents are facing long waits for water and expressing concern about rising incidents of theft and assault. The situation has heightened the urgency for government assistance.
Political Implications
The disaster struck Acapulco just months before Mexico’s upcoming presidential election. President Lopez Obrador has faced criticism for his response to Hurricane Otis. He claims that his critics are exaggerating the impact of the storm for political reasons. However, his statements have drawn backlash, with many accusing him of downplaying the gravity of the situation.
As Acapulco begins the challenging task of recovery and rebuilding, the priority remains providing aid and support to the affected population. The resilience and determination of the people of Acapulco will be crucial in overcoming the aftermath of Hurricane Otis.
Read More of this Story at www.reuters.com – 2023-10-31 06:22:00
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