MEXICO CITY — Mexican authorities said Friday that at least 72 people have died and 48 remain missing following catastrophic floods that swept through eastern and central parts of the country last week.

Veracruz, located along the Gulf of Mexico, was the hardest hit, recording 32 deaths and widespread destruction across multiple towns. Hidalgo reported 21 fatalities, while Puebla confirmed 18 deaths and Querétaro one.

Gov. Rocío Nahle said three municipalities and 37 communities in Veracruz remain cut off, with 50 temporary shelters housing nearly 4,800 displaced residents. More than 58,000 aid packages have been distributed across affected areas.

Hidalgo has the highest number of isolated communities, with 77 still unreachable as recovery teams continue to reopen communication lines.

Across five states, authorities have mobilized over 375 pieces of heavy machinery and nearly 9,000 workers, including military and navy personnel, to assist in rescue and rebuilding operations.

President Claudia Sheinbaum is expected to visit the hardest-hit regions this weekend, excluding San Luis Potosí and Querétaro, which officials say are no longer in a state of emergency. — Agencies