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Acapulco Hit by Severe Flooding and Landslides

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. pulco-hit-by-severe-flooding-and-landslides.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 13:47 GMT by Travel + Leisure
      Locales: Quintana Roo, MEXICO

Acapulco, Mexico - February 23rd, 2026 - A severe weather event has plunged Acapulco into crisis, triggering widespread flooding, landslides, and significant disruption to travel. The torrential rains, described by local meteorologists as exceeding historical averages for this time of year, have overwhelmed infrastructure and prompted a full-scale emergency response from the Mexican government. The situation is rapidly evolving, with airlines suspending flights and tourists urged to reconsider their travel plans.

Escalating Rainfall and its Devastating Effects

The current crisis stems from an unusually intense period of rainfall that began late last week. The persistent downpours have saturated the ground, leading to numerous landslides, particularly in the hilly areas surrounding Acapulco. These landslides have blocked crucial roadways, isolating communities and hindering rescue efforts. The flooding itself has inundated homes and businesses, displacing residents and causing substantial property damage. Reports indicate that the city's drainage systems were quickly overwhelmed, exacerbating the flooding and creating dangerous conditions for those attempting to navigate the streets.

Airlines Ground Flights as Acapulco Airport Suspends Operations

Acapulco International Airport (ACA) has suspended all flights in and out of the city, effectively cutting off air access. Major airlines operating routes to Acapulco, including Aeromexico, Volaris, and several international carriers, have proactively cancelled flights, citing safety concerns. Passengers are strongly advised to check directly with their airlines for the latest updates on flight status, cancellation policies, and rebooking options. The disruption is expected to continue for several days, potentially longer, depending on the extent of the damage and the time required to restore safe airport operations. While airlines are offering flexibility, the sheer volume of impacted passengers is creating significant challenges for customer service and rescheduling.

Government Response and Emergency Measures The Mexican government has mobilized emergency response teams, including the National Guard and Civil Protection agencies, to assist affected residents. Rescue operations are underway to evacuate those stranded by the floods and landslides. Shelters have been established to provide temporary housing, food, and medical care for displaced individuals. The government is also working to clear blocked roads, restore essential services such as electricity and water, and assess the full extent of the damage. The Sistema Nacional de Proteccion Civil ([ https://www.gob.mx/spm/es/home ]) is serving as the primary source of official information, providing real-time updates and safety guidelines.

Traveler Advisory: Stay Informed and Consider Postponement

For tourists with upcoming travel plans to Acapulco, the advice is unequivocal: exercise extreme caution. The situation remains highly volatile, and conditions are likely to worsen before they improve. Travelers are strongly encouraged to:

• Contact Airlines: Verify flight status and understand cancellation/rebooking policies.
• Communicate with Accommodation Providers: Check the safety and accessibility of hotels or rental properties.
• Monitor Local News and Weather Reports: Stay updated on the evolving situation and heed any warnings or advisories.
• Strongly Consider Rescheduling: If possible, postpone your trip until the immediate crisis subsides and conditions stabilize. Travel insurance that covers weather-related disruptions is highly recommended.

Beyond the Immediate Crisis: Long-Term Impacts

While the immediate focus is on rescue and relief efforts, the Acapulco weather crisis is expected to have lasting consequences. The damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and power grids, will require significant investment to repair. The disruption to tourism, a vital sector of Acapulco's economy, will have a ripple effect on local businesses and employment. Experts suggest that this event highlights the growing vulnerability of coastal cities to extreme weather events, exacerbated by climate change. A comprehensive review of Acapulco's infrastructure and disaster preparedness plans will be essential to mitigate the risks of future crises. The Mexican government is already signaling intentions to invest in improved drainage systems and landslide prevention measures. Furthermore, the event underscores the importance of sustainable tourism practices that prioritize environmental protection and resilience. The long road to recovery for Acapulco will require a concerted effort from government, businesses, and the local community.