Mexico is reeling from catastrophic floods and landslides that have claimed at least 44 lives across five states, following days of torrential rains triggered by Tropical Storms Priscilla and Raymond.
According to a government report released on Sunday, October 12, the states of Veracruz and Hidalgo were hardest hit, recording 18 and 16 deaths respectively.
Other fatalities were reported in Puebla (9) and Querétaro (1), as authorities continue to assess the full scale of the disaster.
The storms, which formed off the Pacific coast, unleashed record rainfall and caused widespread destruction.
In one area of Veracruz alone, over 21 inches (540 mm) of rain fell between October 6 and 9, overwhelming rivers and triggering deadly landslides.
Moreover, the storms’ impact stretched across 117 municipalities in five states, including San Luis Potosí, leaving a trail of wrecked infrastructure and displaced families.
Authorities reported that more than 32,000 homes in Puebla and Veracruz were damaged or destroyed.
Meanwhile, 320,000 electricity users across the country were affected by power outages, and dozens of communities were completely cut off due to blocked roads and collapsed bridges.
One of the worst-hit areas was Poza Rica, where the Cazones River overflowed, submerging homes and streets under nearly 12 feet of water.
Videos circulating online, showed desperate residents wading through floodwaters carrying belongings on their heads as rescue teams struggled to reach isolated areas.
In response to the unfolding crisis, President Claudia Sheinbaum launched a large-scale relief operation, mobilizing federal and state resources.
“We are fully committed to restoring safety and providing immediate relief to affected communities,” she said during an emergency meeting with governors of the impacted states.
Thousands of soldiers and naval officers have been deployed to assist in rescue efforts, distribute food and medical supplies, and restore basic services.
Furthermore, temporary shelters have been set up to accommodate displaced families as cleanup and recovery operations continue.
Meanwhile, meteorologists described the twin storms as one of the most severe weather events to hit Mexico in recent years.
