Devastation Unveiled: A Glimpse into the Aftermath of Hurricane Otis in Mexico
Devastating images reveal the catastrophic aftermath caused by Category 5 Hurricane Otis in Acapulco and southern Mexico, showcasing the immense scale of destruction unleashed on the region
The recent satellite imagery showcases the extent of devastation brought upon Acapulco and southern Mexico by the powerful Category 5 Hurricane Otis. This storm, unparalleled in history, was unlike anything Acapulco has ever experienced before. With winds reaching speeds of 165 mph and gusts even stronger, it resembled a slow-moving EF3 tornado that spanned over a distance of 30 miles.
At least 27 individuals lost their lives when the storm's gusts forcefully pushed the sea onto the land, causing severe destruction to the skyline of Acapulco. The once-glistening high-rise hotels and residences in the city, bathed in tropical sunlight, now stand as mud-splattered remnants of concrete and contorted metal.
The shoreline of Acapulco, Mexico, on October 4, 2023.
Satellite image ©ï¸2023 Maxar Technologies
The Acapulco shoreline on October 26, 2023.
Satellite image ©ï¸2023 Maxar Technologies
Storm surge cut gashes into the beach
Satellite image ©ï¸2023 Maxar Technologies
Hotels along the beach in Acapulco, Mexico, on October 4, 2023.
Satellite image ©ï¸2023 Maxar Technologies
Damaged hotels along a beach in Acapulco, Mexico, on October 26.
Satellite image ©ï¸2023 Maxar Technologies
Damage to beach-front hotels and high-rises
Satellite image ©ï¸2023 Maxar Technologies
According to Jorge Laurel, the former president of the Acapulco Association of Hotels and Tourist Enterprises, approximately 80% of the hotels in Acapulco have suffered extensive damage. Laurel described the situation as chaotic and devastating, with damages that cannot be accurately quantified. He also mentioned that there is no electricity, as the entire electrical grid has been either partially or completely destroyed.
The unforeseen and extraordinary swiftness with which Otis intensified, fueled by a warmer ocean, serves as a harsh illustration of the storms experts predict as a consequence of the planet-altering pollution that results in climate change.
A marina in Acapulco Bay, Mexico, on October 4, 2023.
Satellite image ©ï¸2023 Maxar Technologies
A marina in Acapulco Bay, Mexico, on October 26, 2023.
Satellite image ©ï¸2023 Maxar Technologies
Boats are tossed ashore and buildings torn apart in Acapulco Bay
The satellite image, obtained from Maxar Technologies in 2023, has surprised numerous individuals in Acapulco, resulting in some still being unaccounted for. Melitón López arrived in the city on Thursday in search of his daughter Fátima, whom he had not been in contact with during the storm's onslaught.
"She mentioned being on the bridge, witnessing extensive damage with falling trees and debris from buildings. However, we lost contact with her after that," López revealed.
According to Laurel, approximately 40,000 tourists were present in Acapulco before the storm struck, despite it being the offseason for tourism. A group of tourists recounted their experience to CNN, stating that they sought shelter under a bridge for several hours as the fierce storm engulfed them. They had been caught off guard while returning to their hotel by bus.
The La Poza neighborhood in Acapulco, Mexico, October 4, 2023.
Satellite image ©ï¸2023 Maxar Technologies
The La Poza neighborhood after the storm in Acapulco, Mexico, October 26.
Satellite image ©ï¸2023 Maxar Technologies
Buildings are flattened in the La Poza neighborhood of Acapulco
Satellite image ©ï¸2023 Maxar Technologies
The residents of this place, who have survived the storms, and the tourists who sought refuge here, secured their remaining belongings to their cars in search of shelter, an escape route, or both. Some resorted to walking, attempting to navigate through a city hindered by a damaged airport and congested roads filled with debris and vehicles.
On Friday morning, Mexican authorities announced the partial reopening of Acapulco's airport, allowing commercial flights from Mexico City for the purpose of evacuating people and delivering medical supplies to the city. Additionally, they confirmed the dispatch of 270 buses to aid in the evacuation efforts.
Walmart and Sam's club in Acapulco, Mexico, on October 4, 2023.
Satellite image ©ï¸2023 Maxar Technologies
Walmart and Sam's Club after the storm in Acapulco, Mexico, on October 26, 2023.
Satellite image ©ï¸2023 Maxar Technologies
Debris litters a Walmart and Sam's Club parking lot
Satellite image ©ï¸2023 Maxar Technologies
After widespread destruction, those who remain in Acapulco face a bleak outlook for recovery. The urgent need for assistance from the federal government is evident, as extensive reconstruction will be a time-consuming process. With a substantial investment and various support programs, the city can hope for eventual restoration.
The arrival of aid has been delayed, causing frustration and desperation among the people. CNN observed individuals procuring food and essential goods from various stores.
According to CNN correspondent Gustavo Valdés, residents in Acapulco expressed that they have not received the necessary assistance. They lack access to water and food, and simply require something to sustain themselves.
CNNs Claudia Rebaza, Gustavo Valdés, David von Blohn, Abel Alvarado, David Shortell contributed to this story
