Torrential downpours in the state of Veracruz have left a trail of destruction, claiming at least one life, flooding multiple regions, and leaving five municipalities completely isolated.

The state’s Civil Protection Secretariat (SPC) has issued a “gray alert”—a warning of significant meteorological impact—for the entire territory of Veracruz as a tropical depression in the Gulf of Mexico threatens to intensify into a tropical cyclone. Meanwhile, the municipalities of Ilamatlán and Zontecomatlán have been placed under a “red alert,” indicating the potential for very severe damage.

Fatalities and Infrastructure Collapse
Authorities confirmed the death of 76-year-old Serafín Apale Xocua from Zongolica, who was reportedly swept away by a powerful current in a ravine while returning home.

The heavy rains have triggered a series of landslides and flash floods across the region. In Ilamatlán, landslides have blocked key roads, cutting off access to the municipal seat and isolating the community of Xoxocapa, where a bridge collapse further severed transportation links. Similarly, Zontecomatlán is facing a rising river and a collapsed bridge, prompting the opening of a temporary shelter in the municipal auditorium to accommodate displaced families.

Widespread Disruptions
The disaster has impacted at least 10 municipalities, with significant landslides reported in:

Tlalchichilco: Blocking access to the community of Landero and Coss.
Huayacocotla: Damaging the state road to Zontecomatlán.
Zacualpan: Where four separate landslides have blocked various state and dirt roads.
Zongolica: Affecting local access roads and rural paths.
Emergency Response and Forecast
State officials have activated several emergency protocols, including Plans Tajín, Marina, and DN-III-E, to coordinate a preventive response. On Tuesday, a command post will be established in Poza Rica to manage potential impacts in the northern region of the state.

While the rivers Cazones and Tecolutla are currently seeing increased water levels, officials stated they do not pose an immediate threat to the population at this time. However, the weather forecast remains grim, with intense rains expected to persist through Tuesday and Wednesday, with the potential to continue into the weekend as the tropical system develops.