Hurricane Lidia: A Recap of Its Impact on Puerto Vallarta

Once again, Puerto Vallarta was challenged by Mother Nature when Hurricane Lidia, a Category 4 storm, made its dramatic entrance into the region.

At 5:50 PM yesterday, Lidia made landfall in the town of Las Peñitas, 55 kilometers south-southwest of Puerto Vallarta. The National Meteorological Service confirmed that the hurricane continued its path over solid ground, leaving a trail of hurricane-force winds and heavy rains that affected the North Coast region and the Western Sierra of Jalisco.

Here in Puerto Vallarta, we had an intense three-hour experience. Fortunately, initial reports indicate that most of the damage was material. Víctor Hugo Roldán, general director of the Jalisco Unit of Civil Protection and Firefighters, reported that during the damage assessment in our destination they found fallen trees, some traffic signal posts, traffic lights and light structures.

The response began immediately, and since the early hours of this morning, Puerto Vallarta’s municipal staff has been mobilized to clear the streets and remove fallen objects. The Civil Protection team joined the recovery efforts, prioritizing the removal of fallen trees that were blocking the city’s main communication routes.

In addition to the material damage, there was a disruption in the electrical supply in some Puerto Vallarta neighborhoods. Fortunately, restoration efforts are underway and power is gradually being restored. Due to this interruption, only two SEAPAL Vallarta wells were operational, but the situation is expected to return to normal soon.

The Horcones, Cuale, Pitillal, Mascota and Ameca rivers, despite reaching their maximum levels due to heavy rains, remained mostly in their natural bed, preventing further disasters.

While Hurricane Lidia showed its strength, the local community once again demonstrated its resilience and determination to overcome these challenges. Recovery and rebuilding efforts are underway, and our destination is preparing to once again shine with its characteristic splendor.