President Sheinbaum Visits Hidalgo Flood Zones, Announces Census and Aid for Victims

President Sheinbaum Assesses Flood Damage in Hidalgo

President Claudia Sheinbaum recently undertook a second visit to the flood-ravaged state of Hidalgo, Mexico, as part of the federal government's ongoing response to the severe weather that has impacted multiple states. The visit underscores the administration's commitment to addressing the widespread devastation caused by torrential rains between October 6 and October 9, 2025. These rains, fueled by the remnants of Hurricane Priscilla and Tropical Storm Raymond, led to catastrophic flooding and landslides across Veracruz, Hidalgo, Puebla, Querétaro, and San Luis Potosí.

During her visit, Sheinbaum announced a comprehensive government census aimed at identifying affected families and facilitating the distribution of emergency economic aid. This initiative is crucial for understanding the full scope of the damage and ensuring targeted support reaches those in need.

Census Underway and Economic Aid Pledged

The federal government has initiated a house-by-house census, with 26,311 homes already surveyed across 58 municipalities in the five affected states as of October 15. Hidalgo is among the states with a significant number of affected homes and communities, with 77 communities still inaccessible as of October 18. The census is being carried out by 'Servants of the Nation,' federal civil servants who are reaching even the most remote areas.

President Sheinbaum affirmed that economic aid would be distributed to victims following the completion of the census. She stated, 'Following the census, initial support will come, followed by greater support.' The aid is intended to assist with immediate needs, and the government has also pledged support for road and drainage repairs, as well as providing housing for those whose homes, particularly those on riverbanks, were destroyed and are no longer safe to inhabit.

Devastation and Response Efforts

The recent floods have resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis. As of October 18, 2025, the official death toll across the affected states reached 72, with 48 people still reported missing. Hidalgo alone has reported 21 fatalities. Over 100,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed across the five states.

The government's response involves a massive deployment of resources and personnel. Approximately 9,000 personnel, including military and navy units, along with nearly 1,000 machines, are engaged in emergency and reconstruction efforts. Air bridges have been established to deliver food and water to isolated communities, particularly in Hidalgo and Veracruz. Despite the elimination of the Natural Disaster Fund (Fonden), Sheinbaum assured the public that 19 billion pesos are available for emergencies, with 3 billion pesos already utilized.

Challenges and Continued Support

The scale of the disaster has presented significant challenges, including widespread power outages affecting 262,847 users, though 84% of services have been restored. Many communities remain cut off due to landslides and damaged infrastructure, making access difficult for aid workers. President Sheinbaum acknowledged the frustration of residents and reiterated her commitment, stating, 'We will not leave anyone stranded.'

The federal government continues to coordinate with state and municipal authorities to ensure a comprehensive and sustained response, with a focus on recovery and rebuilding efforts in the coming weeks.