Pope offers ‘fervent prayers’ after Mexico hurricane

Pope Francis expressed his closeness to the Mexican resort city of Acapulco on the Pacific Coast, after it was devastated by a hurricane on 25 October.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, wrote in a telegram to Archbishop Leopoldo González González of Acapulco on 27 October that Pope Francis “offers fervent prayers for the eternal rest of the deceased, while asking the Lord to grant his consolation to those who suffer the devastating effects of the hurricane.” He hoped Christians would contribute to the reconstruction of affected areas.

In Acapulco, at least 100 people were killed, hundreds more injured and infrastructure destroyed by Hurricane Otis. Buildings were badly damaged by winds of 165mph, along with downed trees and entire parts of the city of one million residents was underwater.

The city is the largest in Guerrero, the second poorest state in Mexico, which has experienced decline and drug cartel violence over recent decades. Outside Acapulco, more than 30 per cent of the homes in the state  lost power, plunging entire towns into darkness.

The Guerrero state government estimated 80 per cent of the city’s hotels were damaged and widespread looting followed shortages of essential goods. Speaking from Acapulco later the same day, after overcoming mudslides to reach the city, Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador called the hurricane “unprecedented in the country”.

Mexico’s bishops said in statement that “in these difficult times, we call for unity and fraternity among Mexicans, and we urge the provision of generous assistance for those affected, especially the poorest and most vulnerable.”

Cáritas México reported that Hurricane Otis was the strongest hurricane ever to hit Mexico’s Pacific Coast, according to the National Hurricane Centre. Dioceses in Mexico have established collection centres to help those made destitute in Acapulco.

“We are aware of the pain and anguish that overwhelms thousands of families who have lost their homes, property and livelihoods in these disaster areas,” Caritas said.