Severe Weather Turns Calzada Ignacio Zaragoza into a River, Disrupting Public Transport in Mexico City
Photos: Eric Lugo/ El Economista
A powerful storm on Saturday night transformed the Calzada Ignacio Zaragoza into a raging river, leaving thousands of public transport users stranded and causing the suspension of Metro Line A service between Guelatao and La Paz stations.
According to Mexico City’s Chief of Government, Clara Brugada, the rainfall exceeded all forecasts, with 90.75 mm recorded at the Rebombeo-La Quebradora station, 76.4 mm in Lomas de Zaragoza, and 73.75 mm in Ejército de Oriente.
The most affected boroughs were Iztapalapa, Tláhuac, Venustiano Carranza, and Gustavo A. Madero, where censuses are being conducted to tally damages to homes.
Chaos and Solidarity in Peñón Viejo
Images from the Peñón Viejo area show hundreds of people wading through knee-deep water, carrying family members on their backs or shielding themselves with plastic bags and makeshift umbrellas.
The routes of trucks and combis connecting Chalco, Iztapalapa, Amecameca, and Cuautla were left inaccessible, forcing thousands to walk through the floodwaters to reach their destinations.
Key Figures and Impacted Areas
Clara Brugada, the Chief of Government for Mexico City, reported that the rainfall surpassed all predictions, with significant accumulations in various districts:
- 90.75 mm at Estación de Rebombeo-La Quebradora
- 76.4 mm in Lomas de Zaragoza
- 73.75 mm in Ejército de Oriente
The boroughs of Iztapalapa, Tláhuac, Venustiano Carranza, and Gustavo A. Madero were the most affected, with censuses underway to assess damages to residences.
Scenes of Chaos and Solidarity in Peñón Viejo
Photographs from the Peñón Viejo area depict hundreds of people navigating through waist-deep water, some carrying family members or protecting themselves with plastic bags and improvised umbrellas.
The regular routes of trucks and combis connecting Chalco, Iztapalapa, Amecameca, and Cuautla were rendered inaccessible, compelling thousands to walk through the floodwaters to reach their intended destinations.
Impact on Public Transport
The severe weather conditions led to the suspension of Metro Line A services between Guelatao and La Paz stations, further complicating the commuters’ situation.
Community Resilience
Despite the challenging circumstances, the resilience and solidarity of the affected community members are evident in the images. People supported each other, shared resources, and displayed determination to reach their homes amidst the adversities.
Support and Assistance
Elements of the Secretariat for Comprehensive Citizen Security (SSC) were seen assisting stranded passengers, including carrying infants wrapped in blankets.
Conclusion
The historical rains in Iztapalapa have caused significant disruptions to public transport and left many residents stranded. The resilience and solidarity displayed by the affected community members are commendable, as they navigate through these challenging circumstances.
Key Takeaways
- Severe rainfall in Mexico City caused flooding and disrupted public transport.
- Clara Brugada, the Chief of Government, reported record-breaking rainfall in several districts.
- Iztapalapa, Tláhuac, Venustiano Carranza, and Gustavo A. Madero were the most affected boroughs.
- Metro Line A services between Guelatao and La Paz stations were suspended.
- Community members showed resilience and solidarity in the face of adversity.
Additional Information
For the latest updates on weather conditions and public transport services in Mexico City, please refer to official sources such as the local government’s website or social media channels.
