A week after floods, swathes of central Mexico reel from devastation

POZA RICA, Mexico — POZA RICA, Mexico (AP) — The aftermath of last week’s devastating rains in central and eastern Mexico is still being felt in Poza Rica. The city is struggling to recover from the floods that left a trail of destruction in their wake.

The city, known for its oil production, is now facing a massive cleanup operation. Streets are still submerged under water and mud, with piles of debris blocking access. The situation is dire for residents like Ana Luz Saucedo, who are dealing with the aftermath of the disaster.

The death toll from the floods has risen to 66, with 75 people reported missing. The government is working tirelessly to reach communities cut off by the disaster, but challenges persist due to the difficult terrain and weather conditions.

Residents like Saucedo are questioning the response to the warnings issued before the floods. Many feel that the alerts came too late, leaving them unprepared for the deluge that followed.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has promised a review of emergency protocols and alert systems in the wake of the disaster. The focus now is on restoring access to affected areas, providing aid to those in need, and ensuring that similar events can be better managed in the future.

Emergency teams, volunteers, and government agencies are working together to bring relief to those affected by the floods. The road to recovery will be long, but the resilience of the Mexican people shines through in times of crisis.

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