Hurricane Otis: At least 27 dead in aftermath of Category-5 storm

The main road connecting Acapulco to Mexico City has reopened in one direction, Secretary of State for Security Rosa Icela Rodriguez said.

The road was closed after Hurricane Otis ripped through Acapulco yesterday, destroying many buildings.

Communications were also down in the city overnight, with many still without power on Thursday.

At least 27 people are dead in Acapulco after Hurricane Otis, Mexican officials said on Thursday.

“Unfortunately, we received word from the state and city governments that 27 people are dead and four are missing,” Secretary of State for Security Rosa Icela Rodriguez told a news conference in Mexico City.

She said communications with Acapulco were being gradually restored.

A “nightmare scenario” struck shortly after midnight in the coastal city of Acapulco on Wednesday.

Heavy rain from Otis will continue to impact areas of southwest Mexico across Guerrero and Oaxaca states, and may also cause “life-threatening coastal flooding” through Thursday, NHC said.

After Hurricane Otis escalated into a Category 5 storm last night (24 October), concerns over the safety of travel to Mexico and the risk of further natural disasters have risen.

Hurricane conditions made a powerful landfall in Acapulco on Mexico’s Pacific coastline on Wednesday morning and sustained 165-mph winds are expected to sweep the south coast between San Jose del Progreso and San Jeronimo de Juarez on 25 October.

The general directorate of tourist services, Ángeles Verdes, said: “Safety is our top priority, and currently, travel to certain regions of Mexico may be risky due to adverse weather conditions and affected infrastructure.

“The recommendation from Ángeles Verdes is that you reconsider your trip or stay informed about the situation in Mexico before making a decision. It is important to check the warnings and recommendations of local authorities and civil protection to ensure your safety during your stay.

“Mexico is a beautiful country with a lot to offer visitors, but in situations like this, it is essential to prioritize safety. For when you postpone your trip, we will be here to help you with future experiences in Mexico when conditions are safer.”

Otis went from a Category 1 to Category 5 hurricane in just 12 hours — the fastest rate ever recorded in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.

The storm made landfall near Acapulco and is moving north-northwest through the country.

As global temperatures increase and sea levels rise, tropical cyclones – the catch-all term for hurricanes and typhoons – are expected to become more powerful and destructive, scientists say.

The ocean hit record high temperatures this year, driving marine heatwaves around the world. This heat is being caused by a fossil-fuel driven climate crisis with El Nino, a cyclical weather pattern, layered on top.