A 24-hour hotline has been made available for Britons caught up in devastation in Mexico caused by Hurricane Otis.
The Category 5 hurricane hit the Pacific coastal resort of Acapulco overnight on Tuesday bringing 165mph winds, closing airports, roads and damaging hotels.
“Major hurricane conditions” continued on Wednesday, according to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.
Hurricane Otis was the strongest-ever storm to make landfall on the country’s west coast. Details of any casualties have not yet emerged.
But in updated travel advice, the FCDO warned of reports of “significant damage to infrastructure” in Acapulco and along Mexico’s southern coast between Zihuatenejo and Punta Maldonado, including hotels, transport, communications and health services.
“The Del Sol and Cuernavaca-Acapulco motorways in Guerrero are reported to be closed, and roads in the region have been subject to flooding, mudslides and traffic accidents. Acapulco and Zihuatanejo airports are closed,” it added.
“The post-storm situation remains dangerous. Heavy rains from Otis are likely to produce further flash flooding and mudslides. Be aware that historically more accidents occur post-storm than during it.
“The storm is not the only hazard; many electric lines will be down and some buildings may not be structurally sound.
“Local authorities have called for those in the affected zone to stay inside and take precautions, including staying informed about shelter locations.
“For 24/7 help for affected British people, you can call +52 55 1670 3200. If you are in need of urgent assistance, please stay on the line and select option 1 for English, and then 4 to speak to an officer.”