Puerto Vallarta is demonstrating remarkable resilience and community spirit following the impact of two powerful weather events. High waves from the passing Hurricane Pricilla combined with heavy rains left by Tropical Storm Raymond caused significant flooding over the weekend, affecting over 1,200 homes and numerous businesses.
Swift Response Brings Immediate Relief
Despite the challenges, authorities and the community quickly mobilized to address the damage. Misael López Muro, director of Civil Protection and Firefighters in Puerto Vallarta, confirmed the extensive nature of the flooding, which brought water and mud into homes across neighborhoods like Ixtapa, Cañadas, Mojoneras, Bobadilla, La Floresta, Portales, and Parque Las Palmas. Tragically, one person lost their life during the storm.
Jalisco Civil Protection crews continue to work diligently, providing crucial support to affected families. Rescue and cleanup teams have been instrumental, offering relief, sanitation, and even performing rescues. Their work includes monitoring vulnerable areas, assessing damage, and focusing on restoring communication lines and roadways.
Aid Delivered Directly with Heartfelt Gratitude
The immediate, hands-on assistance provided by municipal authorities has been a source of great comfort and appreciation for residents. Citizens praised Mayor Luis Munguía for his rapid response, highlighting the speed at which aid brigades were organized and essential items like mattresses, bed frames, and refrigerators were delivered directly, minimizing bureaucratic delays.
Residents personally shared their gratitude for the quick, compassionate response. Carlos Martínez, who lives in the Palma Areka neighborhood, expressed immense relief after his home was flooded with half a meter of water. “We are seniors, and this aid is a great relief. The president came personally to see us, and that gives us confidence,” he shared upon receiving assistance, emphasizing that they felt supported and not forgotten. Similarly, Ms. Adriana García thanked the authorities, noting, “Civil Protection was attentive, and now with the mayor’s visit, we appreciate the support.”
Families acknowledged that the help felt prompt and personal, with municipal staff and volunteers actively assisting with cleanup and the distribution of household goods. The solidarity shown by the mayor and his team, who remained in the area from the beginning, was cited by residents as a source of peace during a difficult period.
Nourishment and Shelter Offer Comfort
In a coordinated effort to support those displaced, the Puerto Vallarta DIF (District of Inhabitants) activated food assistance brigades. On Sunday, they delivered more than 600 hot meal rations in the main flooded areas. The agency’s staff, led by President Claudia Peña and supported by the Municipal Heritage Directorate and the Vallarta Institute of Culture, visited families in areas like Mojoneras, Parque las Palmas, La Floresta, and Loma Bonita, sharing a message of solidarity with each meal.
In preparation for the storm’s aftermath, two temporary shelters were activated under instructions from Civil Protection and Firefighters. These shelters, located in the former Vida Nueva shelter in Coapinole and the Casa Ejidal in Ixtapa, successfully cared for three adults and four children.
Tourist Area Unaffected, Donations Welcome
While the recovery efforts continue in affected neighborhoods, municipal authorities reported that the tourist areas sustained no major damage from the early morning rains. This means Puerto Vallarta remains open and fully operational, ready to welcome its visitors.
For those wishing to help the recovery effort, a collection center has been set up at the DIF headquarters (105 Corregidora Street, Santa María neighborhood) to receive food donations. Donations are accepted Monday through Friday, from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm.
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