Torrential Rains Devastate Mexico, Leaving at Least 44 Dead and Dozens Missing

Mexico is reeling from one of its deadliest weather disasters in recent years as torrential rains triggered by tropical storms Priscilla and Raymond have left at least 44 people dead and several others missing across multiple states. Authorities confirmed widespread destruction, mass evacuations, and emergency operations that continue across the central and eastern regions of the country.

The downpour, which began late last week, has caused landslides, flash floods, and severe infrastructure damage in at least 139 towns spread across five states, including Veracruz, Hidalgo, Puebla, and Querétaro. Entire neighborhoods were swallowed by mud, while swollen rivers swept away cars, bridges, and homes.

According to the Interior Ministry, Veracruz has reported the highest number of casualties so far, with 18 confirmed deaths, followed by Hidalgo with 16, Puebla with nine, and Querétaro with one. Rescue teams continue to comb through debris as authorities fear the death toll could rise in the coming days.

President Claudia Sheinbaum convened the National Emergency Committee on Sunday, calling for an “all-hands response” to reach the hardest-hit communities. “Our immediate priority is to save lives, restore access, and provide safe shelter to those affected,” Sheinbaum said in a national address.

Emergency workers, soldiers, and volunteers are battling harsh conditions to reach isolated towns cut off by landslides and flooded roads. Videos circulating on social media show dramatic rescues — people being airlifted from rooftops, families wading through chest-deep water, and military boats ferrying stranded residents to safety.

Officials estimate that thousands of families have been displaced, with many left without clean water, power, or food supplies. Schools, hospitals, and local clinics have also sustained heavy damage, prompting concerns of a potential health crisis if conditions worsen.

Meteorologists warn that additional rainfall could continue through the week, increasing the risk of more landslides and river overflows, particularly in mountainous areas. The government has urged residents in flood-prone zones to remain alert and comply with evacuation orders.

Relief efforts are now shifting from immediate rescue operations to recovery planning. Temporary shelters are being established, and engineers are working to restore major roadways and power lines in affected regions. Local charities and international aid organizations have also pledged support for reconstruction.

The scale of the disaster has underscored the growing challenge of extreme weather events in Mexico, which scientists say are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change. The federal government has vowed to strengthen infrastructure resilience and improve early warning systems in the aftermath of this tragedy.