Christians Aid Victims After Deadly Floods Hit Central Mexico

Widespread flooding has killed at least 64 people and left dozens missing across central and eastern Mexico, triggering a nationwide humanitarian response led by churches and faith-based groups.

The disaster, caused by the remnants of Tropical Storms Raymond and Priscilla, has devastated several states including Hidalgo, Veracruz, Querétaro, Puebla, and San Luis Potosí. Overflowing rivers, landslides, and collapsed bridges have cut off many towns, leaving thousands homeless.

According to President Claudia Sheinbaum, about 100,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed. “There were no scientific or meteorological conditions that could have indicated rainfall of this magnitude,” she said on Monday, noting that rescue teams are struggling to reach isolated communities. Some regions received more than 20 inches of rain in four days.

Churches Turn Sanctuaries Into Relief Centers

Amid the devastation, Christian churches have become lifelines. Across the affected areas, sanctuaries have been converted into emergency shelters and aid collection centers.

“We have nothing left. The water came in very fast; we didn’t know what to do,” said Julia, a resident of Tianguistengo in Hidalgo.

Congregations have been gathering food, bottled water, clothing, and hygiene supplies for distribution. Pastor Óscar Moedano of Aliento de Vida Church said the scale of destruction is unprecedented. “We have helped during other floods, but this one is beyond anything we have seen,” he told Diario Cristiano.

Despite damaged roads and power outages, volunteers continue to deliver relief. “We are going to gather what is necessary for our brothers and sisters,” Moedano added.

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Towns Submerged, Homes Destroyed

Images from Poza Rica, Veracruz one of the hardest-hit areas  show entire neighborhoods underwater. The Cazones River overflowed its banks, forcing residents to climb onto rooftops as vehicles and debris were swept away.

“The water flooded our church and our homes. It is heartbreaking,” said one resident as she cleaned mud from her congregation’s floor.

Local reports suggest the river rose to record levels, exceeding seven meters in some areas. Thousands of homes and churches now lie in ruins.

Rising Death Toll and Public Outcry

Mexico’s National Civil Protection Coordination confirmed at least 64 deaths, 65 missing persons, and tens of thousands displaced.

In Pachuca, capital of Hidalgo state, angry residents gathered at Plaza Juárez, demanding quicker government action. “Our relatives are isolated with no food or water. We need helicopters to reach them,” said Jennifer Reyes, one of the protesters.

With official aid delayed, many communities have taken matters into their own hands. Some have pooled resources to hire private helicopters to deliver supplies to stranded families.

Government Response and Faith-Based Relief

Following public pressure, President Sheinbaum activated the DN-III-E Emergency Plan, deploying the army and helicopters for rescue and relief operations. The move came three days after the floods began, sparking criticism over the government’s slow response.

Despite the frustration, churches and Christian organizations continue to fill the gap. Congregations across Hidalgo, Veracruz, and neighboring states are cooking meals, collecting donations, and offering shelter to displaced families.

“The Church is standing with those who are suffering,” said a local pastor. “Faith must always move us to action.”

Content Credit: Moyosola Oni

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