On 25OCT, Hurricane Otis, a Category 5 storm, struck Acapulco, Mexico, resulting in significant devastation. The aftermath left at least 27 dead and extensive damage to the region.
In a press conference held the following day, 26OCT, Mexican Security Minister Rosa Icela Rodriguez shared the grim news that four individuals remain unaccounted for. By late evening on the day of the storm, officials and military support had arrived in Acapulco. Reports from CNN describe the devastation they found as "heartbreaking."
"Images and video show structures torn apart, including several high-rises. Storm surge and rain left roads inundated, leaving some to wade through several feet of murky water," according to CNN.
During a press conference, Guerrero Governor Evelyn Salgado shared that around 80 percent of Acapulco's hotels bore the brunt of Hurricane Otis. She emphasized her administration's efforts in assisting tourists, ensuring they are transported to safer zones.
According to Mexico's Secretary of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation, the Acapulco International Airport has halted operations while recovering from the storm's impact.
‘Vancouver is Awesome’ reported that Air Canada told them Hurricane Otis was not impacting its operations but that it would "continue to monitor the situation closely."
WestJet implemented adaptable change/cancellation policies for passengers travelling to Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, Mexico, on 25OCT in response to the tropical storms.
CTV reports that no Canadian victims were among the lives lost in the storm.
The regional travel advisory cautions Canadians against non-essential trips to the area. Travellers already in Acapulco are advised to stay put, keep an eye on local news and weather updates, and heed the guidance of local officials. Although the Canadian Consular Agency in Acapulco is shut down because of the storm, Canadians requiring urgent consular support can contact the Canadian Embassy in Mexico City.
