Hurricane John struck the southern coast of Mexico on September 23 as a Category 3 storm. After landfall south-southwest of Marquelia in Guerrero state, Hurricane John weakened to a tropical storm, causing heavy rains, flooding, and landslides.

Mexico Field Nazarene Compassionate Ministries Coordinator Cutberto Tenorio said the areas most affected by the floods are Acapulco, Costa Chica, and Tierra Caliente, where many families were evacuated and relocated to shelters set up by the government.

“Water shortages and unstable electricity service are the main needs,” Tenorio said, adding there is a great need for food, clothing, and boots to move through the water and mud.

The Church of the Nazarene in Acapulco and Ciudad Altamirano mobilized to respond to the crisis through NCM.

Teams of volunteers, including young people and teenagers, rehabilitated houses after cleaning, removing mud and debris, and disinfecting walls and floors. They also provided affected families with food packages, clothing, and purified water.

“There have been several communities that have supported each other,” Tenorio said. He also said there are still essential challenges regarding how the church will respond to different needs.

Mesoamerica Regional NCM Coordinator David Campos requested prayer for those affected, including those who are continuing to respond and be the hands and feet of Jesus.

To learn about how you can help the response, click here.

--Church of the Nazarene Mesoamerica Region