Mexico Flooding and Landslides Claim At Least 23 Lives

At least 23 people have died across Mexico following a week of intense rainfall that triggered widespread flooding and landslides, authorities reported today.

The heavy rains, which impacted 31 of Mexico’s 32 states, were particularly severe in Veracruz, Queretaro, Hidalgo, and San Luis Potosi. Hidalgo state reported the highest number of fatalities with 16 deaths and approximately 1,000 homes affected. Five deaths were confirmed in Puebla, where 11 people remain unaccounted for, while a child died in Veracruz and a police officer in Queretaro. These extreme weather events highlight Mexico’s increasing vulnerability to climate change and its associated risks.

National Coordinator for Civil Defence, Laura Velázquez, stated that the affected states are experiencing landslides, overflowing rivers, and road collapses. More than 5,400 military personnel have been deployed to assist with aid distribution and rescue efforts, equipped with necessary vehicles and equipment. Shelters have been opened to accommodate those displaced from their homes. For information on disaster preparedness, visit the Ready.gov website.

President Claudia Sheinbaum convened a meeting with local officials and cabinet members yesterday, emphasizing the government’s commitment to supporting the affected population, restoring infrastructure, and reconnecting power supplies. Tropical Storm Raymond is currently situated off the Pacific coast, contributing to ongoing rainfall in Chiapas, Guerrero, Oaxaca, and Michoacan, and is expected to reach Baja California this weekend, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center. You can find more details about ongoing weather events across Mexico here.

Officials are continuing to work to reopen roads and provide assistance to those impacted by the severe weather conditions.