Torrential rains have wreaked havoc in central and eastern Mexico, leading to a tragic toll of 64 fatalities and 65 individuals reported missing, according to the latest government updates. These extreme weather conditions have been particularly severe over the last week.
Regions Affected by the Rains
The states most impacted include:
- Veracruz (east)
- Hidalgo (central)
- Puebla (central)
This information comes from Laura Velazquez, the national civil protection coordinator, during a press briefing with President Claudia Sheinbaum.
Causes of the Devastating Weather
Between Monday and Thursday, intense rainfall levels caused rising river and creek waters, leading to significant flooding. Velazquez noted that the sudden onset of this weather was influenced by a tropical depression entering through the Gulf of Mexico, interacting with a cold front from the north.
Missing Persons and Casualties
The majority of missing persons, numbering 43, are from the state of Hidalgo. Authorities expressed concerns over the reporting and predictability of these weather patterns. President Sheinbaum highlighted the complexities of forecasting, which differed from what is usually expected during hurricane seasons.
Emergency Response Efforts
In the mountainous region of Hidalgo, a helicopter airlift was initiated to reach isolated communities cut off by floodwaters. As of Sunday afternoon, military helicopters were actively transporting supplies and aiding those stranded.
Local Reports of Damage
Local officials reported two fatalities due to a landslide that destroyed houses in the municipality of San Bartolo Tutotepec. Mayor Uvaslado Gonzalez emphasized the challenges in reaching the most affected areas, compounded by landslides and mudflows.
Humanitarian Crisis
Residents face hardships, struggling to find essential goods. One citizen, Cira Gonzalez, mentioned that markets quickly sold out of supplies, leaving remaining goods priced excessively. Meanwhile, electric outages have plagued downtown businesses.
Community Struggles
Desperate for food and water, many residents traveled for miles on foot to reach shelters set up by the government. Marco Mendoza, a local farmer, recounted his arduous two-and-a-half-hour trek through mud just to find scarce resources.
Challenges in Supply Delivery
Many logistics have been disrupted, with trucks stuck in the mountains, unable to deliver perishable goods to neighboring areas. However, the clearing of roads commenced on Sunday as cloud cover lifted, allowing for some emergency access.
As Mexico grapples with the aftermath of these torrential rains, the focus will remain on recovery efforts and providing aid to those affected. The impacted regions seek to restore order and normalcy in the face of this humanitarian crisis.
