Tropical Storm Dalila Causes Widespread Flooding, Landslides & Infrastructure Damage Across Guerrero

Emergency protocol activated as storm damages roads, homes, and coastal infrastructure before transitioning to post-tropical system.

Tropical Storm Dalila drenched parts of southwestern Mexico between June 13 and 16, dropping 100 to 150 mm (4 to 6 inches) of rain across Guerrero, Colima, and Michoacán.

Acapulco was hit particularly hard, with streets and neighborhoods overwhelmed by floodwaters. Emergency teams worked quickly to unblock drainage systems and clear roads of debris.

In Acapulco’s Casa Ara neighborhood, standing water reached 20 cm (8 inches), while the Luis Donaldo Colosio housing complex reported 30 to 40 cm (12 to 16 inches) of floodwater. Flooding was also reported in the Misión del Mar area, and large sinkholes emerged in several urban zones.

Landslides and Blocked Highways

At least six landslides occurred throughout Guerrero during the storm, including four along the Escénica Highway and one along the Metlapil–La Venta route. A separate rockfall occurred near Pichilingue. These events cut off travel on key roads and raised concerns about further instability in the terrain.

Federal Highway 200, a vital coastal route, suffered multiple blockages, and several low-water crossings collapsed due to flooding and erosion.

Workers in Acapulco try and clear mud and debris amid flooding produced by Tropical Storm Dalila. Credit: SGIRPC

Coastal Destruction and Marine Losses

Dalila’s powerful surf battered Guerrero’s coastline, sinking three to five small fishing boats near Tlacopanocha and Dominguillo beaches. Wave action also destroyed at least 38 beachside restaurants and temporary shelters near Revolcadero, inflicting heavy economic damage to local businesses.

Structural Damage And Power Outages

The Hogar Moderno neighborhood suffered a roof collapse at its DIF public auditorium, and residential roof damage was reported across multiple districts in Acapulco. Tree falls were widespread, blocking roads and downing power lines in areas like Emiliano Zapata, Mozimba, and near the Naval Base.

Power outages were confirmed in Acapulco, Juchitán, and Tecpan, leaving residents without electricity as emergency crews worked to restore service.

Trees fell due to wind gusts produced by Tropical Storm Dalia in Acapulco, Mexico. Credit: SGIRPC

Emergency Response and Evacuations

In response to the growing crisis, authorities activated Plan DN‑III‑E, a national emergency protocol managed by Mexico’s military. Troops were deployed to assist with evacuations, road clearing, and public safety operations.

The Secretariat of Comprehensive Risk Management and Civil Protection (SGIRPC-Gro) established temporary shelters for 37 displaced individuals in Coyuca de Benítez, while three families voluntarily evacuated high-risk areas in Acapulco. In flood-prone neighborhoods, residents erected sandbag barriers in an effort to protect their homes.

Dalila Weakens, but Hazards Persist

By June 16, Tropical Storm Dalila had weakened into a post-tropical remnant low offshore. Despite this downgrade, officials maintained a Yellow Alert due to lingering risks of localized flooding, hazardous surf, and unstable ground.

Residents were advised to avoid flooded roadways, remain alert to weather developments, and follow guidance from local emergency agencies as cleanup efforts continue.

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