17 Yucatán Towns Face Flood Risk This Hurricane Season

Yucatán, Mexico — Seventeen municipalities in the southern part of the state are at risk of flooding during the current hurricane season, which is set to conclude in November. Authorities have emphasized that residents must remain prepared in case a storm forms and impacts the Peninsula.

The municipalities identified are Ticul, Akil, Chapab, Chumayel, Dzan, Mama, Maní, Mayapán, Muna, Oxkutzcab, Sacalum, Santa Elena, Teabo, Tekax, Tekit, Tixméhuac, and Tzucacab.

Official Recommendations for Preparedness

Among the recommendations issued by authorities are preparing the home, cleaning and desilting nearby channels, drainage systems, and ditches; securing roofs, windows, and doors; and using sandbags or barriers in vulnerable zones.

Authorities explained that it is fundamental to identify safe routes and shelters and to maintain contact with family members and neighbors. They also invited the population to be prepared and to have an emergency backpack containing important documents and copies, potable water and non-perishable foods, medicines, and personal items.

"In this tropical cyclone season, having your emergency backpack ready can help you act quickly and protect your family," stated Yucatán's Civil Protection agency, Procivy.

Guidelines During and After a Flood Event

During a flood, the preventive measures to avoid risks are to not cross streets or roads with water, to avoid contact with stagnant water to prevent illness, and to follow the instructions of Procivy at all times.

After the event, damage should be assessed with caution. People should avoid approaching or making contact with downed electrical lines, should not consume food or water that has been in contact with mud or floodwater, and should report failures or emergencies to local authorities.