At least 15 fatalities have been reported in Mexico due to the devastating impacts of Hurricane John, according to President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.
The storm initially made landfall a week ago as a Category 3 hurricane along Mexico’s Pacific coast, southeast of Acapulco. After weakening over the rugged terrain of Guerrero state, it regained intensity over the Pacific, triggering meteorologists to label it a “zombie storm.”
The heavy rainfall associated with Hurricane John resulted in severe flooding and landslides, isolating many communities and leading to significant loss of life. While President López Obrador confirmed 15 deaths in Guerrero, reports from local media suggest the total casualties across the three most affected states could exceed 20, with estimates as high as 29.
Experts indicate that although Hurricane John downed trees and damaged infrastructure, the prolonged torrential rains were responsible for most of the fatalities, with some regions receiving nearly a year’s worth of rainfall within just a few days.
In Oaxaca state alone, at least 80 landslides occurred, burying homes and trapping residents. Many areas became impassable, cutting off entire communities. The resort city of Acapulco, still recovering from Hurricane Otis last year, faced significant flooding.
City officials called on boat owners to assist in rescue efforts for those stranded in inundated neighborhoods. Distressing videos shared by residents depict individuals wading through waters that reached shoulder height, with some families seeking refuge on their roofs as floodwaters surged.
Emergency responses indicated that over 5,000 individuals were evacuated, with 3,800 people currently sheltered in emergency facilities. Claudia Sheinbaum, set to be inaugurated as Mexico’s new president on Tuesday, announced plans to visit Guerrero on Wednesday with her ministers to assess the situation and ensure that all affected communities receive essential assistance.
