Two missing in Sonora floods; binational search underway

Heavy rains have caused significant disruption along the Sonora-Arizona border, leaving at least two people missing. Emergency services from both Mexico and the United States launched a binational search operation on Friday, July 17, focusing on the Santa Cruz River and its tributaries. The search is for two individuals reportedly swept away by floodwaters during storms on Thursday.

Authorities reported a preliminary sighting of a woman's body in the U.S. while the search continues for a second missing person, whose identity remains unconfirmed. It is suspected that both individuals may have been carried across the border by the powerful currents of the arroyos.

The severe weather also led to dangerous situations within Nogales, Sonora. Municipal transit agents rescued a 19-year-old man who was swept away on his motorcycle while attempting to cross a flooded area. The young man managed to cling to a metal structure until police officers could reach him and bring him to safety.

Officials are cautioning residents against crossing any flooded streets or arroyos, whether on foot or in vehicles. Further storms are predicted for Nogales on Friday afternoon, with the monsoon system potentially altering the forecast. Protection Civil is urging the public to stay informed through official media channels and to follow any alerts issued.

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Las autoridades recomendaron no cruzar arroyos ni calles inundadas, ya sea a pie o en vehículo.