Hurricane Otis Leaves Acapulco in Chaos: Mexican Government Declares State of Emergency and Calls for Investigation into Looting

Acapulco, Mexico was left in chaos following the landfall of Hurricane Otis on Tuesday. The Category 5 storm caused extensive damage to the resort city of nearly 1 million people, leaving residents without electricity or internet service.

The destruction was widespread, with many of the beachfront hotels in Acapulco appearing as shattered hulks after hundreds – and possibly thousands – of windows were blown out. Trees and power lines were toppled and brown floodwaters extended for miles in some areas.

The toll of the hurricane remains uncertain, however reports of looting have been confirmed. Street stalls were also damaged, and the city is struggling to recover.

The Mexican government has declared a state of emergency in the region, and is working to provide aid to those affected. The government has also called for an investigation into the looting.

The full extent of the destruction caused by Hurricane Otis is yet to be determined, however the city of Acapulco is in need of assistance as it works to recover from the storm.