Ayuda! Find out more about the worst Mexican floods in the last half century through Root Coffee, where Sol Hernandez keeps us updated on the story in Tabasco and Chiapas as it develops. Also, PLEASE DONATE to flood relief efforts through the Root Coffee Paypal account. According to Karen, “[Sol’s] family is in Tabasco and she is collecting funds for her mother, who is helping evacuee families. So far they have collected $400.00. I know that a little goes along way in Mexico so please consider helping out. I think we New Orleanians can appreciate the anguish and uncertainty, and we also know what a long up hill road they have ahead of them.” Coincidentally, EJ found and posted this harrowing video from August 29, 2005.
L.A. Times: Mexican Floods Recede, But Death Toll and Criticism Mount
… Officials have been quick to blame torrential rains that have spawned massive flooding described by many as “biblical.” But critics said the crisis may have been made worse by human sources. A number of media outlets in recent days have charged that state and local officials misspent resources earmarked for flood protection and continued to allow developers to build in high-risk zones. “Criminal Negligence,” read a headline from the respected weekly magazine Proceso. “Tabasco Pays for Corruption,” read another from the national daily La Jornada.
New York Times: Fears Over Aftermath Of Mexico Floods
… but the receding waters also heightened the risk of disease. Officials said there was no sign yet of epidemics, although the floodwaters“ descent could lead to outbreaks of diseases like malaria, dengue fever and cholera. Officials said they planned to spray the city to prevent outbreaks. Along the flooded streets, the risk of disease was visible. Dead chickens, dogs and even pigs floated in the water. New medical teams arrived in the city, joining teams of medical workers and police officers from elsewhere in Mexico.
The lower waters also made it easier for looters to get into abandoned houses. Residents said thieves had been traveling the flooded streets at night. During the day, soldiers and police officers patrolled some of the flooded streets, but they were not present at night. Thousands of people in flooded areas chose to remain on their roofs to guard their few possessions.
Thank you for spreading the word. The help for New Orleans has been amazing. We’ve raised $150 more (it does go a long way), but we also see outclicks from http://rootcoffee.blogspot.com/ to the other relief funds, and that is very good.
All my best
Sol