Mexican authorities have updated the death toll from the devastating rains and floods that struck the country earlier this month to 78 fatalities, as search and rescue teams continue to look for missing persons.
The intense storms hit five Mexican states between October 7 and 11, causing widespread destruction. The worst-affected area was Veracruz on the Gulf of Mexico coast, while Hidalgo, Puebla, San Luis Potosí, and Querétaro also reported severe damage. Thousands of people were displaced from their homes, and major roads, communication lines, and essential services were disrupted.
Initially, officials reported 36 deaths by October 11, but the number has continued to rise as emergency teams recover more bodies from flood zones and landslides. According to Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, two individuals who were previously reported missing were found dead, raising the toll to 78, while 23 people are still missing.
Government Response and Financial Aid
During a press conference on Wednesday, President Sheinbaum confirmed that the government is investing significant resources to help affected families and restore damaged infrastructure.
Key recovery measures include:
- $580 million USD allocated for rebuilding the hardest-hit communities
- Up to $1,150 USD in direct financial aid per affected family
- $2,900 USD available for local businesses impacted by the floods
- Up to $5,800 USD in agricultural recovery support for farmers
- $29,000 USD dedicated to reconstruct damaged medical clinics
Search and rescue operations are still underway in difficult terrain, with authorities urging continued caution due to unstable weather conditions.
The Mexican government has assured the public that no effort will be spared in locating the missing and helping devastated communities recover from one of the deadliest flooding disasters in recent years.
