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Hurricane Otis, a Rare Category 5 Storm, Slams Mexico’s Western Coast

News

Hurricane Otis

Hurricane Otis, as seen from satellite imagery on Oct. 25, 2023. (Image courtesy of CIRA/NOAA)
By Brea Burkholz

Hurricane Otis made landfall as a Category 5 storm Wednesday morning, directly impacting Acapulco, Mexico, a metropolitan area home to more than 1 million people. The storm intensified by 80 miles per hour in just 12 hours, the fastest rapid intensification in the eastern Northern Pacific in the satellite era since 1966.
Due to the severe impact of the storm, communications in the area have completely collapsed, posing challenges to government, emergency, and first responder agencies working to assess the extent of damage and impact on residents of the area. Initial reports from the Mexico Defense Ministry indicate both ground and air travel are unavailable.

Following major storms like Otis, widespread damage to homes and health facilities often leaves thousands displaced and at risk. Direct Relief works closely with local healthcare facilities in hurricane-prone areas around the world to ensure those in need have medication, supplies, and necessary care.

Direct Relief has initiated communication with its network of partner organizations, including Mexico’s Federal Health Secretariat organization, the Operational Center for Contingency Attention (COPAC), The National Defense Ministry of Mexico (SEDENA), and Medical Impact, A non-governmental organization dedicated to providing health services and medical aid to disadvantaged communities in Mexico. These organizations have received funding and medical aid from Direct Relief to assist them in responding to disasters just like Hurricane Otis and were equipped with emergency medical packs and emergency health kits.

The situation in Acapulco is dynamic and impacts of the storm will continue to emerge in the days ahead. Direct Relief will continue to assess the situation and will be in communication with additional healthcare providers and first responder organizations to offer additional emergency medical resources as needed.

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