Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco— As the second half of September approaches, Puerto Vallarta officials are on high alert, with this period recognized as the most critical time during the hurricane season. Blanca Becerra, the second commander of the Jalisco State Unit for Civil Protection and Firefighters in Puerto Vallarta, has issued a warning that approximately 300 families are residing in areas highly susceptible to the dangers posed by hurricanes, particularly in regions at risk of river overflow.
In a proactive response to these potential threats, Becerra highlighted that comprehensive preventive measures have been implemented. “Notification has been sent to each of the families living in risk areas, in the highlands, in the mountainous areas, in all the colonies, especially those in the river basins,” she stated. This strategy is aimed at ensuring that residents in the most vulnerable areas are fully aware of the dangers and are prepared to take immediate action if necessary.
The municipal government has also undertaken significant defensive efforts, particularly in the construction and reinforcement of shelters in areas where soil erosion has become a pressing issue. These shelters are designed to provide safe havens for those living in at-risk neighborhoods, especially if evacuation orders are issued.
Becerra specifically pointed out that neighborhoods such as Bogambilias, Agua Azul, Ramblases, Altavista, and Buenos Aires are among the areas identified as having the highest risk. In these locations, authorities have meticulously mapped out the potential hazards and are ready to initiate evacuations should the situation escalate.
This heightened state of readiness comes as the National Meteorological System of the National Water Commission (Conagua) has forecasted an active hurricane season for the Pacific. According to Conagua, between 8 and 9 tropical storms are expected this year, with 4 to 5 of these potentially intensifying into category 1 or 2 hurricanes. Furthermore, the region could see 3 to 4 hurricanes of greater intensity, categorized as level 3, 4, or even 5.
