Severe Weather Claims Lives in Mexico
At least 47 people have been reported dead due to heavy rains, landslides, and flooding in Mexico as of Sunday, following a tropical system’s impact. Tropical cyclones Raymond and Priscilla unleashed “extraordinary rains” since Thursday, with additional contributions from tropical disturbance 90-E, reports 24brussels.
The states most affected include Veracruz, Puebla, and Hidalgo, regions that intersect with the Sierra Madre Oriental mountain range. The Security Secretariat stated that the government is “accelerating relief and recovery efforts in the areas affected by the rains.”
Civilian and military rescue teams intensified their operations on Sunday, aided by the clearing of cloud cover. Numerous roads have been obstructed by landslides, isolating many small towns, particularly in Veracruz.
President Claudia Sheinbaum surveyed the primary disaster zones in Veracruz and Puebla on Sunday, assessing the damage and outlining care protocols for affected residents. “There are still several communities in Veracruz that are isolated, but, fortunately, today (Sunday), air bridges were set up to deliver food and water and to treat anyone who is sick,” Sheinbaum stated.
Many residents in cut-off areas are traversing long distances in search of food and medicine, with reports emerging of merchants exploiting the crisis by hiking prices.
A joint announcement from the Ministry of Security and Citizen Protection and the National Civil Protection Coordination (CNPC) detailed that federal agencies are collaborating closely with state and local governments to expedite the restoration of roads and electricity.
As the aftermath of the storms continues to unfold, urgent calls for assistance are expected to increase, underscoring the need for national support and coordination in disaster response efforts.
