Heavy Rain and Floods hit Mexico

Heavy rain has affected parts of northern Mexico over the last few days, with severe flooding reported in the states of Sinaloa and Chihuahua. Sonora and Baja California states were also affected.

One person died after being swept away by flash floods in the municipality of Guadalupe y Calvo, Chihuahua on 28 November, 2019.

The state government said it will request an Emergency and Natural Disaster Declaration for severe rains in 14 municipalities. As much as 141mm of rain fell in 24 hours to 28 November in Urique, which along with the municipalities of Batopilas, Chínipas and Morelos, was among the worst affected areas. According to Chihuahua Civil Protection, around 200 people were evacuated after floods and landslides in Batopilas, Chínipas and Urique municipalities.

In Sinaloa the governor, Quirino Ordaz Coppel requested a state of emergency for the municipalities of Culiacán, Elota, San Ignacio and Mazatlán. Schools have been closed across the state. Over 50 people were evacuated in Coyotitán in San Ignacio.

Flooding caused severe damage in the city of Mazatlán, with streets flooded to roof height of vehicles. Roads in the area, including the Mazatlán-Culiacán highway, have been closed. Mazatlán recorded 195mm of rain in 24 hours to 29 November.