Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – The Pacific hurricane season officially began on May 15th, 2024. In response, Puerto Vallarta’s Municipal Civil Protection Council has declared itself in permanent session, ready to act throughout the rainy and tropical cyclone season.
The council includes all municipal agencies, the DIF, and various state and federal entities such as State Civil Protection, the Army, Navy, Tourism, Business Chambers, and universities. Interim Mayor Francisco José Martínez Gil emphasized the importance of being prepared for natural disasters and thanked the participating agencies for their cooperation.
During the inaugural meeting, meteorologist Víctor Cornejo predicted a less intense rainy season for Puerto Vallarta, but warned that the Banderas Bay region is still at risk for severe weather. Forecasts for the Pacific include 3-4 major hurricanes, 4-5 less intense hurricanes, and 8-9 cyclones or tropical storms.
The council also discussed current preparations. Roberto Ramos Vázquez, director of the Municipal DIF System, announced the availability of 17 temporary shelters that can accommodate 4,000 people. These shelters include the Municipal DIF Day House, TEC Vallarta, and the Puerto Vallarta Regional High School. A pet shelter is also ready to be activated if needed.
Public Works Director Jaime Gabriel Pérez Meza reported that 75% of the work to clean canals and streams, including the Banús neighborhood canal and the old Pitillal riverbed, has been completed. José Ascención Gil Calleja, director of Municipal Public Services, emphasized the importance of preventive measures such as cleaning sewers and trimming potentially dangerous tree branches.
Gerardo Castillón Andrade, director of Civil Protection and Firefighters, outlined the operational plan designed to improve emergency response and coordination between agencies.
The Municipal Civil Protection Council reaffirmed its commitment to continuous monitoring and proactive measures to protect the population throughout this critical season. However, the absence of the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) was noted, as their quick and efficient response is crucial during severe weather events.
