Tropical Storms Priscilla and Raymond Devastate Mexico: A Test for Leadership and Policy

In early October 2025, Mexico faced a devastating natural disaster as Tropical Storms Priscilla and Raymond struck central and southeastern regions, causing severe flooding and landslides. The states of Veracruz, Hidalgo, Puebla, San Luis Potosí, and Querétaro were among the hardest hit.

As of October 15, the death toll had risen to at least 66, with 75 individuals reported missing. Veracruz and Hidalgo bore the brunt of the fatalities, reporting a combined total of 50 deaths and 61 people missing. The storms also inflicted extensive damage on infrastructure, affecting approximately 100,000 homes. Bridges were destroyed, streets were buried under mud, and thousands of emergency personnel were deployed for rescue, evacuation, and cleanup operations. Electricity was mostly restored in the five affected states.

In response to the crisis, President Claudia Sheinbaum coordinated with state governors and federal authorities to address the emergency. The government deployed thousands of military personnel to assist in rescue and relief operations, focusing on reopening roads, establishing air bridges, and delivering aid to isolated communities. Despite these efforts, the disaster has become a significant test for President Sheinbaum amid growing public criticism of the government's response. Analysts and opposition figures have pointed to a lack of preparedness and delayed deployment of aid. Attention has also turned to the 2021 dismantling of Mexico’s Natural Disaster Fund (Fonden), with Sheinbaum defending the decision despite widespread concern about funding sources for disaster relief.

The dismantling of Fonden in 2021 has raised questions about the country's preparedness and response capabilities in the face of such disasters. The current situation underscores the need for a reassessment of disaster management policies and funding mechanisms. The increasing frequency and intensity of tropical storms highlight the broader implications of climate change, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate future risks.

The dual impact of Tropical Storms Priscilla and Raymond has exposed vulnerabilities in Mexico's disaster preparedness and response systems. As the nation mourns the loss and begins rebuilding, it faces critical decisions on policy reforms and resource allocation to better withstand future natural disasters.