Mexico City: Mexico is grappling with severe flooding and landslides following days of intense rainfall caused by a late-season tropical depression. The disaster has resulted in at least 64 confirmed deaths and 65 individuals reported missing, with the hardest-hit regions being Veracruz and Hidalgo states.

In Veracruz, the Cazones River overflowed, submerging the city of Poza Rica and surrounding areas. Hidalgo experienced similar devastation, with entire neighborhoods buried under mudslides. Approximately 100,000 homes have been affected across five states, and critical infrastructure, including bridges and roads, has been severely damaged.

The Mexican government has mobilized over 5,400 emergency personnel, including military and civil protection units, to conduct rescue operations, evacuate residents, and provide humanitarian aid. Electricity has been restored in most affected areas, and efforts are underway to prevent outbreaks of waterborne diseases such as dengue.

President Claudia Sheinbaum has pledged federal support for recovery and rebuilding efforts. She is coordinating with state officials and finance authorities to assess damages and allocate resources for reconstruction. A visit to the most affected areas is planned to oversee relief operations firsthand.

This disaster underscores the vulnerability of Mexico's central and Gulf Coast regions to extreme weather events, particularly during the rainy season. Experts warn that such occurrences may become more frequent and intense due to climate change, highlighting the urgent need for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness.

As recovery efforts continue, the Mexican government is also focusing on long-term strategies to mitigate the impact of future storms and enhance resilience against climate-related disasters.