LiDAR and photogrammetric study of the Acapulco bay after the October 2023 Otis hurricane in southern Mexico

Abstract We present results of a LiDAR and photogrammetric study carried out following the strongest hurricane of the eastern Tropical Pacific Ocean, Otis on 24–25 October 2023 to characterize the hydrological network and analyze the precipitation effects in the Acapulco Bay. The tropical storm increased its intensity, reaching the coastline as a category 5 hurricane, with sustained winds around ~ 265–270 km/h and low pressures of ~ 923 hPa. Hurricane Otis caused severe damage to infrastructure and population, with the intense winds, rainfall, flooding and debris flows. The study characterizes the topographic relief, streams, channels, confluence and bend points and urban infrastructure. Classified high-resolution models for reflectivity, height point clouds and RGB data are generated, integrating the relief, slope, drainage network, vegetation cover and urban elements. Classified maps and flood simulation modeling constrain water flows, rates and distribution and extent of flooded areas, for different scenarios of spatial–temporal changes in precipitation and flow dynamics. The LiDAR and photogrammetry study provides an interactive baseline platform to analyze precipitation-induced scenarios and risk analysis.