Boca del Río experiences flooding from heavy swells and river runoff

Heavy swells and a phenomenon known as 'mar de fondo' (swell) caused seawater to overflow into pedestrian areas at Plaza Banderas in Boca del Río, Mexico. The surge brought debris, including branches and logs, into the streets.

Local authorities reported that the situation was exacerbated by runoff from the upper Jamapa River basin. The meeting of the river's flow and the sea's force hindered natural drainage, leading to flooding on Zamora and Malpica streets.

Emma Cesta Arrieta, Director of Civil Protection for Boca del Río, explained that this natural phenomenon can occur even without local rainfall, as it is often driven by meteorological conditions far from the coast. Municipal cleaning crews worked through the night and early morning to remove waste and wash down affected areas.