MEXICO CITY — At least 42 people have been killed and 27 others remain missing after torrential rains triggered severe flooding across several regions of Mexico, authorities said Saturday.

In a statement, Mexico’s National Civil Protection Coordination (CNPC) said the heavy downpours caused widespread flooding in the states of Veracruz, Puebla, Hidalgo, Queretaro, and San Luis Potosi.

Preliminary assessments indicated that at least 42 people lost their lives, while search and rescue teams continue to work intensively to locate the 27 still missing.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum held a virtual meeting with governors of the five worst-affected states to coordinate emergency response efforts.

“None of the victims will be left without assistance. Teams and officials from the federal government have been deployed to reopen roads and deliver aid to the public,” Sheinbaum said after the meeting.

Local media reported that thousands of residents have been left without electricity in what is being described as one of Mexico’s most severe flooding disasters in recent years.

Authorities warned that conditions could deteriorate further due to landslides on mountain slopes and overflowing rivers that have already worsened the destruction.

Heavy rain continues in many affected areas, leaving highways, streets, and homes submerged under floodwaters. — Agencies