Torrential downpours from Tropical Storms Taymond and Priscilla have left a path of destruction. Rivers overflowed, flooding homes and cutting off hundreds of communities. This widespread damage forced an immediate, large-scale response from authorities.
Many areas now face power outages, limited drinking water, and blocked roads. Landslides and floods have made travel difficult. In the storm’s wake, a critical situation unfolded across much of the affected regions.
Government Agencies Mobilize for Recovery
The Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection (SSPC) reported severe impacts on 117 municipalities in five states. Agencies from the National Civil Protection System quickly stepped in. Their main goals include restoring essential services and providing humanitarian aid.
The National Civil Protection Coordination (CNPC) works closely with state, municipal, and military forces. They manage the ongoing crisis. Special plans, like DN-III-E and Plan Marina, activated early on. These plans aim to protect people and ensure their safety.
Other key organizations are also working together. The Secretariat of National Defense (SEDENA), Secretariat of Navy (SEMAR), National Guard, and the Secretariat of Infrastructure, Communications and Transportation (SICT) are involved. So are the National Water Commission (Conagua) and the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE). Their efforts include preventative evacuations, rescue missions, and checking vital structures like roads, health centers, and schools.
Human Toll and Extensive Damage
By Saturday morning, the storms had caused 37 confirmed deaths. Hidalgo reported 22 fatalities, Puebla 9, Veracruz 5, and Querétaro 1. Beyond the tragic loss of life, over 33,000 homes suffered damage.
Many communities are still struggling without electricity or clean water. Access routes remain blocked in some areas. In Veracruz, officials opened 19 temporary shelters, housing 654 people. Hidalgo set up four shelters and three collection centers. Additionally, 1,000 people were moved to safety in high-risk areas of San Luis Potosà and Querétaro. Puebla activated 83 temporary shelters across various municipalities.
The Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) continues working to bring power back. They reported progress in different areas. Veracruz has 20.82% of its power restored. Hidalgo is at 49.47%, and Querétaro at 97.23%. Puebla, however, still shows 14.48% restoration. Teams are spread out to keep working on this vital service.
State-by-State Impact Summary
Across the affected regions, the damage varied. In Hidalgo, 13 municipalities were hit hard. This included 1,200 damaged homes, 308 affected schools, and 59 damaged health centers. Six rivers overflowed, leaving 150 communities cut off. Roads faced 190 landslides or mudslides, impacting 71 communication routes. Currently, 65,443 users in Hidalgo are without electricity, with close to half of services restored.
Puebla saw significant damage to 16,000 homes in 37 municipalities. A hospital belonging to the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) was also affected. Three major communication routes were damaged, and 83 landslides occurred. Nearly 26,442 users still lack electricity, with just over 14% of services back online.
In Querétaro, seven municipalities experienced impacts. There were 147 damaged homes and five communities temporarily without access. The CFE reports 4,512 users without power, though nearly all (97.23%) have seen service restored.
Veracruz suffered widespread damage across 55 municipalities. This included 16,000 homes and 25 communication routes. During this crisis, the Mexican president met with state governors to discuss the situation.
The combined force of Tropical Storms Taymond and Priscilla left a devastating mark. The human cost and material losses are significant. However, the strong teamwork among federal, state, and local authorities, alongside the armed forces, is crucial. This coordinated effort helps people, restores services, and keeps communities safe.