(MENAFN) Mexican officials on Wednesday raised the confirmed fatalities from severe rains and flooding earlier this month to 78, as search teams persist in locating missing persons.

The extreme weather, impacting five states nationwide, disrupted essential services, severed communication networks, and blocked highways, forcing thousands to evacuate and causing numerous casualties and disappearances. Despite the storm occurring two weeks ago, the Mexican government continues to report new deaths and has unveiled a multimillion-dollar recovery plan aimed at rebuilding the hardest-hit areas and aiding affected families.

The heavy rains from October 7 to 11 struck Veracruz along the Gulf of Mexico coast, as well as Hidalgo, Puebla, San Luis Potosi, and Queretaro, with Veracruz facing the most severe flooding and damage.

Initially, by October 11, federal authorities reported 36 deaths; however, the toll has climbed as recovery teams uncover more victims.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed in a press briefing that "two individuals previously reported missing had been found dead, while 23 remain missing."

Sheinbaum emphasized that emergency funds are being directed toward relief efforts.

Alongside a $580 million budget for reconstruction of devastated communities, the federal government will deliver direct financial assistance, offering up to $1,150 per family and $2,900 for affected local businesses. For agricultural recovery, aid could total $5,800, and $29,000 is earmarked for rebuilding healthcare clinics.

MENAFN23102025000045017169ID1110236250