Hurricane Odile
Devastation & Loss in 2014
One of the most powerful eastern Pacific hurricanes on record, Odile, slammed into Los Cabos on September 15 with 125-mph winds, killing 18 people in Mexico and the U.S.
The usually sun-drenched destination, with numerous resort and hotels, a major international airport, championship golf courses, and a 380-slip marina, was devastated. Local schools, hospitals and businesses were decimated. More importantly, thousands and thousands of local people lost their homes.
The Determination and Recovery
At the time, we covered the devastation and subsequent recovery after Odile here on iTravel-Cabo.com. The scale of the damage was immense, But so was the overwhelming determination of the recovery and rebuilding efforts. Los Cabos and the Mexican Government definitely set a benchmark for how to get normality back after a major disaster like Odile.
In the immediate aftermath, understandably a degree of chaos was inevitable. But things got moving quickly, and pretty soon military, red cross and government agencies were all here, working together to get things up and running.
Within 2 weeks Mexican President, Enrique Peña Nieto had flown in 3 times by private helicopter (landing right on the Marina) to check on crucial infrastructure projects. Carlos Slim – Mexico’s richest man who own Telcel phone company - promised that the phone lines would be fully restored by the end of October. And they were.
The Mexican Spirit
Of course, it was the local Mexican population that suffered the worst effects of Odile. But throughout all the dark days, their resilience and generous spirit was always visible.
“The Mexican people don’t dwell on the dreadful devastation that occurred during the hurricane. Or the shameful looting that took place afterwards. What they try to remember is the happiness they felt when everybody got together and helped Los Cabos and everyone in it, get back on their feet.”
And when the first planes started coming in the Mariachi Bands were there in full force to greet them. A sense of humour is always a great national trait!
Read some heart-warming Odile Stories that demonstrate this generous spirit. Find some Hurricane Hints and Tips to help you prepare