EVACUATIONS IN MEXICO? HURRICANE NORMA ARRIVED

On October 21, 2023, evacuations were ordered in several parts of Mexico due to the threat of torrential rains, flooding, and landslides. The evacuations occurred in the states of Chiapas, Tabasco, Veracruz, Oaxaca, Guerrero and Michoacán.

In Chiapas, more than 100,000 people were evacuated from the coastal areas of the municipalities of Pijijiapan, Tonalá and Acacoyagua. In Tabasco, more than 50,000 people were evacuated from the coastal areas of the municipalities of Centla, Cárdenas and Macuspana. In Veracruz, more than 20,000 people were evacuated from the coastal areas of the municipalities of Poza Rica, Tuxpan and Coatzacoalcos. In Oaxaca, more than 10,000 people were evacuated from the coastal areas of the municipalities of Puerto Escondido, Huatulco and Salina Cruz. In Guerrero, more than 5,000 people were evacuated from the coastal areas of the municipalities of Acapulco, Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo. In Michoacán, more than 2,000 people were evacuated from the coastal areas of the municipalities of Lázaro Cárdenas and Playa Azul.

The evacuations occurred after the National Weather Service (SMN) issued a tropical storm warning for the Gulf of Mexico coast. The SMN forecast that a low pressure system in the Gulf of Mexico would become Tropical Storm "Eta" on October 21.

Eta made landfall on the coast of Nicaragua on October 22 as a Category 1 hurricane. It then weakened to a tropical storm and moved north through Honduras and Guatemala. Eta dissipated on October 25 over northern Mexico.

The evacuations in Mexico were a general success. No fatalities or serious injuries were reported. However, flooding and landslides caused property damage in some areas.

Impact of evacuations

The evacuations in Mexico had a significant impact on the affected communities. Evacuees had to leave their homes and businesses, and many of them lost their belongings. The evacuations also caused disruptions to public services and economic activities.

The Mexican government provided assistance to evacuees. The government provided shelter, food and water to people who lost their homes. The government also provided financial aid to people who suffered damage to their property.

Lesson learned

The evacuations in Mexico were a reminder of the importance of being prepared for natural disasters. The Mexican government has taken steps to improve preparedness for natural disasters. The government has developed emergency plans and provided training to emergency officials.

Mexican citizens can also take steps to prepare for natural disasters. Citizens can develop an emergency plan and have an emergency kit ready. Citizens can also pay attention to weather warnings and evacuate when necessary.