Acapulco Struggles to Recover from Hurricane Otis Devastation

Unequal recovery pace as wealthier residents return, poorer neighborhoods still lack basic services; Federal government announces $3.4 billion reconstruction plan

• Hurricane Otis, which escalated from a tropical storm to a Category 5 hurricane in a record 12 hours, has left Acapulco, a city of 1 million, struggling to recover. The hurricane damaged 80% of the hotel infrastructure and 96% of businesses, primarily affecting the tourism industry.
• The recovery process has been unequal, with wealthier residents returning to assess their seaside properties, while poorer neighborhoods still lack basic services. Some residents have complained about the lack of information provided by authorities about the impending hurricane.
• The federal government has announced a $3.4 billion reconstruction plan, which includes aid for families, small business owners, and hotels. The government claims that basic services have been almost completely reestablished and has declared an end to the emergency.
• Despite the government's claims, some neighborhoods, particularly those away from the tourist corridor, still have no power. Residents have taken it upon themselves to clear debris and open paths through the streets, but not all debris has been removed.
• Humanitarian organizations like Doctors Without Borders have warned of potential illnesses like dengue due to the conditions. Many of the damaged hospitals are full, and the humid air is heavy with dust and mosquitoes.

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