Category 5 Hurricane Otis Makes Landfall in Acapulco, Mexico

Hurricane Otis, a Category 5 storm with maximum sustained winds of 165 mph, made landfall near Acapulco, Mexico, bringing the potential for catastrophic damage. The US National Hurricane Center issued warnings of flash floods, mudslides, and life-threatening storm surges in Guerrero’s mountainous areas, with up to 15 inches of rainfall expected.
A hurricane warning is in effect for the coastline from Punta Maldonado to Zihuatanejo. Authorities have closed Acapulco’s port, and over 8,000 troops are on standby for rescue operations. Guerrero state government has prepared 396 shelters, and schools in the region have been closed as a precaution.
While the storm is anticipated to weaken by Thursday, it serves as a stark reminder of the increasing intensity of extreme weather events, a phenomenon exacerbated by climate change. Mexico, facing hurricanes annually, is on high alert during the May to November hurricane season.