Flooding and access problems are continuing in southern Mexico as Cold Front No. 2 brings further heavy rain to Veracruz, Tabasco, Oaxaca and Chiapas.
The front has remained largely stationary over the Gulf of Mexico, producing intense rainfall and strong northerly winds. Mexico’s National Meteorological Service forecast rainfall of between 75 and 150 millimetres in central and southern Veracruz and north-eastern Oaxaca on 21 October. Western Tabasco and northern Chiapas could receive between 50 and 75 millimetres. Coastal Veracruz was also expected to experience wind gusts of up to 70km/h and waves of two to three metres.
More than 1,500 homes in Veracruz have been affected by floodwater, according to Reuters, while federal, state and municipal authorities have begun clean-up and recovery operations. River and reservoir levels are being monitored across Veracruz, Tabasco, Chiapas and Oaxaca. In parts of Tabasco, strong northerly winds and waves of up to six metres have caused coastal flooding and road closures.
Veracruz authorities reported at least 10 deaths linked to the weather system by 20 October. Earlier reports had cited four deaths, suggesting that the figure was revised as emergency assessments continued.
The conditions have prompted school closures, evacuations and emergency operations in several municipalities. Although the heaviest impacts are away from Mexico’s main international resort areas, flooding and road closures could affect regional travel, coastal activities and access to communities in the Gulf states.
Visitors travelling through Veracruz, Tabasco, Oaxaca or Chiapas should check road, port and accommodation conditions before departure and follow instructions from local civil-protection authorities.
