Mérida Submerged by Three-Hour Deluge, Causing Urban Chaos and Flooding

Mérida, Yucatán, was submerged by a relentless three-hour downpour Friday, triggering widespread urban and traffic collapse. The intense storms, accompanied by lightning, inundated various sectors of the Yucatecan capital, leaving behind significant flooding, large puddles, intermittent power outages, and hundreds of stranded motorists. The heaviest rainfall struck the southern, western, and eastern parts of Mérida, rendering many roads nearly impassable due to accumulated water. Major avenues leading to the city center experienced severe congestion, paralyzing mobility during the Friday afternoon rush. Reports indicate dozens of vehicles were stuck or damaged, particularly in underpasses, roundabouts, and heavily flooded intersections, causing miles-long queues and hours-long delays. The Secretariat of Public Security and Civil Protection is monitoring the situation and urges the public to stay home if possible, drive with extreme care, and avoid flooded streets. Many areas also reported power surges, traffic light failures, and fallen branches and trees due to strong winds, adding to the week's emergency reports of downed poles and dangling wires. Authorities continue to issue warnings about potential new floods and urban disruptions.

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Authorities advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel and exercise extreme caution on flooded streets.