Heavy rainfall in central and southeastern Mexico has caused devastating floods and landslides, resulting in at least 41 deaths across multiple states. Authorities reported the deaths as the situation continues to worsen, with thousands of soldiers working to clear debris and rescue the missing amidst widespread infrastructure damage. In Poza Rica, an oil town located 170 miles northeast of Mexico City, residents told the Associated Press that they heard the wall of water and the sounds of cars crashing before seeing the streets flood with over 12 feet of water on Friday. Not everyone was able to evacuate in time, as some families tragically lost their loved ones in the floodwaters.
Shadack Azuara, 27, recounted his experience as he returned to his uncle’s home on Saturday, only to find him shirtless and facedown in the murky water around his bed, apparently drowned. The heavy rains have resulted in 16 deaths in the state of Hidalgo, located north of Mexico City, and have cut off power to 150 communities, according to Mexico’s National Coordination of Civil Protection. At least nine people were killed in Puebla, east of Mexico City, where over 16,000 homes were damaged or destroyed. In Veracruz, where the army and navy are conducting rescue operations, 15 deaths were reported, with many communities left isolated after landslides and swollen streams blocked roadways.
Authorities are searching for 27 missing people across the region, with over 16,000 homes damaged in 55 municipalities. In the central state of Querétaro, a child died after being caught in a landslide. These tragic events highlight the severity of the natural disaster and the urgent need for continued rescue and recovery efforts. The Associated Press contributed to this report, providing further insights into the unfolding situation and its impact on affected communities.