Puerto Vallarta’s Municipal Civil Protection Council has been installed ahead of a forecasted 16–20 tropical cyclones this season; authorities outline storm projections, shelter sites and flood‐prevention measures.
Puerto Vallarta has officially installed its Municipal Civil Protection Council in preparation for an active 2025 hurricane season that is expected to bring between 16 and 20 tropical cyclones to the Pacific. The newly formed council brings together civil and military authorities from federal, state and municipal levels, underscoring a unified effort to safeguard the region.
At the climatological briefing, meteorologist Víctor Manuel Cornejo López outlined the season’s expected breakdown: eight to nine tropical storms with sustained winds of 63 to 118 km/h; four to five hurricanes reaching categories 1 and 2 (119–153 km/h and 154–177 km/h, respectively); and an additional four to six major hurricanes of category 3, 4 or 5, with winds ranging from 178 km/h to over 251 km/h. “While forecasts can shift, preparing for a wide spectrum of storm intensity is essential,” Cornejo López stated.
The council also reviewed the alphabetical storm naming roster. The first disturbance will be christened “Alvin,” with “Barbara” and “Cosme” to follow, continuing through the alphabet to “Z.” This listing aligns with the National Hurricane Center’s naming conventions and assists emergency managers in clear, consistent communication.
Infrastructure readiness has been a priority. Municipal engineers have identified 13 properties—five in rural districts and eight within the city limits—to serve as temporary shelters should evacuations become necessary. In concert with state and federal disaster agencies, the municipality is finalizing supply stockpiles, communications gear and staffing plans for each site.
To mitigate flood risk, more than 16 rivers, streams and canals in and around Puerto Vallarta have been dredged in recent weeks. Town planners emphasize that maintaining clear waterways is key to preventing overflow during heavy rains and storm surge. “Even without a direct landfall, the outer bands of a hurricane can produce extreme rainfall,” warned one council member.
Mayor Luis Ernesto Munguía González highlighted the importance of interagency cooperation: “Our top priority is the safety of every resident and visitor. We have coordinated drills, streamlined communication channels and pre-positioned resources with both civilian and military partners.” He added that continuous monitoring will ensure that response efforts adjust swiftly to changing conditions.
Public outreach efforts are also underway. The council will disseminate preparedness materials via radio, social media and local community centers, encouraging families to assemble emergency kits, secure homes and stay informed through official channels. Schools and businesses are being urged to review contingency plans and, if needed, participate in evacuation exercises.
With the Pacific season officially starting June 1, the council pledged to hold weekly status updates throughout the summer and fall. Residents are reminded to subscribe to municipal alerts and to never underestimate even a weak tropical storm. As Puerto Vallarta stands ready, authorities stress that the collective actions taken now could mean the difference between swift recovery and protracted disruption.
Puerto Vallarta’s Municipal Civil Protection Council has been installed ahead of a forecasted 16–20 tropical cyclones this season; authorities outline . . .
