Torrential rains that struck Mexico last week have claimed at least 64 lives, while 65 others remain missing, according to government reports released on Monday. The heavy downpour, triggered by a tropical depression, caused widespread flooding and landslides across several Gulf Coast and central states.
The storm arrived near the end of the rainy season, overwhelming rivers already swollen from months of rainfall. Forecasters were focused on monitoring tropical storms and two hurricanes forming along the Pacific coast, leaving this weather system largely unexpected.
President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed deep concern over the disaster, stating that “the intense rain was not expected to be of such magnitude.” She added that around 100,000 homes have been affected and announced plans to meet with the finance ministry to discuss relief and rebuilding measures.
Admiral Raymundo Morales, Mexico’s Navy Secretary, explained that the flooding occurred due to the convergence of warm and cold air fronts over already-saturated rivers and unstable mountain regions.
Hidalgo and Veracruz are among the worst-hit states. Civil Protection Coordinator Laura Velazquez reported 29 deaths and 18 missing in Veracruz, while Hidalgo recorded 21 deaths and 43 missing. The rains also damaged infrastructure, destroying bridges and leaving streets buried under mud.
Rescue teams and emergency responders have been deployed across affected areas to assist stranded residents, deliver supplies, and restore essential services. Electricity, which had been disrupted in several towns across five states, has now been mostly restored.
Authorities in Mexico have also begun health surveillance operations to prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, which thrive in stagnant water. The government continues to assess damages and prioritize rebuilding efforts in the most severely affected regions.
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The tragedy serves as another reminder of Mexico’s growing vulnerability to extreme weather events intensified by climate change.
