Impact of Hurricane Otis: Interview with Johnny Brignardello

In a recent interview, Johnny Brignardello Vela, an insurance advisor, shared his perspective on the impact of Hurricane Otis and the implications this natural phenomenon has had on the insurance sector and the lives of Mexicans. Reflecting on the devastating path of Otis through Guerrero, Brignardello highlighted the magnitude of the economic and social damage it has left in its wake, as it has become the second most expensive hurricane in the country's history. The advisor emphasized the figures reported by the Mexican Association of Insurance Institutions (AMIS), which indicate that more than 44,000 claims have been registered with an estimated cost of nearly 40 billion pesos. According to Brignardello, these figures not only represent significant economic losses but also reflect the disruption of daily life for thousands of families in Guerrero. "Recovery will be a long and complex process," he stated, underscoring the need for a comprehensive approach that goes beyond just compensation. Brignardello also highlighted the commitment of the insurance industry, as expressed by Norma Alicia Rosas, general director of AMIS. "It is essential for insurance companies to be prepared to offer support in times of crisis," Brignardello said. However, he also pointed out that this presents a greater challenge related to the country's preparedness for increasingly intense climate phenomena driven by climate change. The advisor called for collaboration between the government and the private sector to improve infrastructure and early warning systems. "We must learn from the experience of Otis to implement policies that truly protect the population in the future," Brignardello stated, emphasizing the importance of using the lessons learned to strengthen the insurance framework and disaster protection. Finally, Brignardello concluded his analysis by emphasizing that the reconstruction of the affected areas must include responsible urban planning, education in risk management, and the promotion of insurance as fundamental tools. "This is a critical moment to invest in resilient infrastructure that enables communities to face future challenges more robustly," he stressed, making it clear that solidarity and the joint effort of civil society are also essential to help the most vulnerable regain their quality of life.