Introduction to the Situation
On July 19, intense rainfall in Mexico City resulted in an accumulation of over 23 million cubic meters of water, with a critical point in the Magdalena Contreras alcaldía. The San Francisco pluviometric station recorded 60.7 millimeters of precipitation in less than an hour, which is more than a third of the average monthly rainfall of 150 millimeters for July.
Who is Clara Brugada Molina?
Clara Brugada Molina is the current Head of Government for Mexico City, responsible for overseeing the city’s administration and emergency response. Her leadership is crucial in addressing the recent heavy rains and their consequences.
Why is Magdalena Contreras Relevant?
Magdalena Contreras is one of Mexico City’s 16 alcaldías, experiencing significant rainfall-related damages. Its relevance stems from being the epicenter of the intense rainfall event, which led to widespread property damage.
Impact on Magdalena Contreras
In Magdalena Contreras, colonias such as Lomas Quebradas, San Jerónimo Lídice, La Malinche, and Lomas de San Bernabé reported 87 affected properties. These include:
- 59 properties with partial losses of belongings
- 16 properties with total losses
- 12 properties with structural damages, including inundations up to 1.20 meters high in some homes.
Government Response and Efforts
To address the emergency, the capital’s government activated Operativo Tlaloque, deploying over 1,200 officials from various departments.
Secretaría de Gestión Integral del Agua
The Secretaría de Gestión Integral del Agua mobilized 290 workers and more than 40 specialized vehicles, including Hércules units, hydromechanical equipment, and motobombas.
Secretaría de Obras
The Secretaría de Obras deployed 70 personnel and 20 underwater extraction equipment.
Secretaría del Medio Ambiente
The Secretaría del Medio Ambiente initiated urgent cleanup efforts of the “La Coyotera” barranca in Lomas Quebradas, one of the most affected areas due to debris accumulation.
Additional Support Measures
Temporary shelters and community kitchens were set up to assist affected families. Gubernamental insurance adjusters began visiting damaged homes on July 20 to document the extent of the damages.
Climate Change Context
Clara Brugada Molina emphasized that these extreme weather events are no longer considered “atypical rainfall” but rather frequent and intense occurrences due to climate change. In response, she announced the expansion of the Acupuntura Hídrica program, which aims to create over 100 rainwater absorption wells in strategic locations to mitigate future flooding.
Key Questions and Answers
- What caused the heavy rains in Mexico City? Intense and short-term precipitation, exacerbated by climate change.
- Which areas were most affected? Magdalena Contreras alcaldía, specifically Lomas Quebradas, San Jerónimo Lídice, La Malinche, and Lomas de San Bernabé colonias.
- How many properties were affected? 87 properties reported damages, with varying degrees of loss or structural issues.
- What measures were taken by the government? Activation of Operativo Tlaloque, deployment of over 1,200 officials from various departments, and initiation of cleanup efforts and support measures for affected families.
- How is climate change related to this event? Climate change is causing more frequent and intense weather events, including heavy rainfall in short periods.
