Mexico City: Mexico is reeling under the impact of torrential rains that have unleashed widespread devastation across several states, claiming at least 28 lives and leaving a trail of destruction. The relentless downpour over the past few days has triggered flash floods, landslides, and building collapses, plunging many regions into darkness due to massive power outages.
The state of Hidalgo has borne the brunt of the catastrophe, with 16 confirmed deaths and extensive property damage. State Interior Secretary Guillermo Olivares Reyna reported that continuous rainfall caused hillsides to give way, sending mud and debris cascading into residential areas. Rivers swollen beyond capacity inundated hundreds of homes and fields, displacing scores of families and disrupting daily life. Preliminary assessments indicate that over 1,000 houses, 59 medical centers, and 308 schools have been affected by the calamity.
In Veracruz, one of the hardest-hit coastal states, dramatic scenes unfolded as floodwaters swept away vehicles, trees, and even a floating restaurant on a riverside. Videos shared on social media captured the intensity of the flooding, with residents struggling to salvage belongings and reach higher ground. Local officials confirmed that emergency teams are working round the clock to rescue trapped residents and deliver food and medicine to isolated communities.
The neighboring state of Puebla has also suffered tragic losses, with nine fatalities reported so far and 13 people still missing. Governor Sergio Salomón Céspedes Peregrina stated that the scale of the damage is extensive, and search operations are being intensified as heavy rain continues to lash the region. Rescue teams equipped with boats and helicopters have been mobilized to reach remote areas cut off by landslides and collapsed bridges.
Adding to the crisis, 84 municipalities across the affected states are facing prolonged power outages after transmission lines were destroyed by the flooding. The blackout has hampered communication networks, making coordination of rescue efforts even more challenging. Waterlogging has also crippled road transport, with several highways remaining impassable due to mudslides and debris.
In response to the escalating disaster, the Mexican government has deployed 8,700 soldiers as part of a massive rescue and relief operation. Troops are engaged in evacuating stranded residents, clearing roads, and distributing essential supplies. Temporary shelters have been set up in schools and community centers to accommodate those displaced by the floods. Authorities are also working to restore power and reopen major transport routes as soon as possible.
Meteorological officials have warned that the situation remains critical, with more rainfall expected in the coming days. The saturated soil and rising river levels continue to pose a threat of further landslides and flash floods. As Mexico braces for continued downpours, the government has urged citizens in vulnerable areas to remain alert and follow evacuation orders.
The tragedy underscores the growing challenge of managing extreme weather events in Mexico, where climate change has intensified the frequency of floods, storms, and droughts. For now, the nation mourns its dead and rallies behind thousands who have lost their homes, livelihoods, and loved ones to nature’s fury.