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Direct Relief Mobilizes for Dual Hurricane Threats

Response to Hurricane John in Mexico and Preparation for Hurricane Helene in Florida

News

Hurricanes

Tropical Storm Helene as seen on Sept. 24, 2024, in the U.S. Gulf Coast. (NOAA Satellite Image)
By Brea Burkholz

As communities in Mexico begin to assess the damage from Hurricane John, another powerful storm, Hurricane Helene, is barreling toward the southeastern United States, with Florida projected to be in its path within the next 48 hours. Direct Relief is actively responding to the situation in Mexico and simultaneously supporting healthcare providers which are preparing for the impacts of Helene.

Hurricane John: Immediate Response in Mexico

Late Monday night, Hurricane John made landfall on Mexico’s Pacific coast, bringing devastating winds of 120 mph and torrential rainfall to the states of Oaxaca and Guerrero. The Category 3 storm brought heavy rainfall, mudslides, and triggered warnings of life-threatening floods. Coastal cities like Acapulco and Puerto Escondido suffered damage to homes and infrastructure. Two casualties have been reported following a landslide in Guerrero.

Direct Relief has prepositioned emergency medical supplies, including antibiotics, chronic disease medications, and hygiene kits to support local healthcare providers. These supplies will focus on reaching the most vulnerable populations, including those in remote, isolated areas where access to care is critical.

“Our teams are in contact with our network of healthcare providers on the ground to ensure life-saving medical assistance reaches those in need,” said Eddie Mendoza, Direct Relief’s Mexico Country Director. “As damages and needs are assessed, Direct Relief will respond with the rapid deployment of any additional specifically requested medicines and medical aid to the region.”

Hurricane Helene: Florida Braces for Impact

As Direct Relief continues its response in Mexico, Hurricane Helene, currently a Category 3 storm, is tracking toward Florida’s Gulf Coast. Expected to make landfall within the next 48 hours, Helene threatens millions with destructive winds, heavy rains, and dangerous storm surges. Evacuation orders have already been issued for vulnerable coastal areas, and local authorities are urging residents to prepare for potential flooding, power outages, and infrastructure damage.

Direct Relief’s Hurricane Preparedness Program

In preparation for hurricanes and tropical storms each year, Direct Relief distributes and monitors caches of medications and supplies, called hurricane preparedness packs, throughout the Gulf Coast and other vulnerable areas. The packs contain medical essentials, including chronic disease medications, wound care supplies, and other items commonly requested after storms for patient care.

“Direct Relief’s Hurricane Preparedness Program allows healthcare providers to respond quickly when disasters strike,” said Annie Vu, Associate Director of U.S. Emergency Response for Direct Relief. “By pre-positioning medical supplies, critical resources are available immediately, where and when they are needed most.”

Tropical StorTropical Storm Helene and Hurricane John's anticipated paths, along with Hurricane Preparedness Pack recipient facilities. Click the image to expand.
Tropical Storm Helene and Hurricane John’s anticipated paths, along with Hurricane Preparedness Pack recipient facilities. Click the image to expand.

Coordinated Efforts for Dual Crises

As Hurricane John recovery efforts continue in Mexico and Hurricane Helene threatens the U.S., Direct Relief is operating on multiple fronts to address the distinct challenges each storm presents. In Mexico, the focus remains on providing immediate relief and preventing public health crises such as outbreaks of waterborne diseases. In Florida, the organization is working with local partners to prepare for Helene’s potential impact by ensuring healthcare facilities are equipped to handle the surge in patients and possible infrastructure damage, including loss of power.

Direct Relief will continue to provide updates as the situation develops and more information becomes available. The organization remains committed to supporting the affected communities through every phase of the response and recovery process, ensuring that life-saving medical aid is available.

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