Thousands flee Mexico floods

Updated 13.44 Sat Nov 03 2007

Keywords: Tabasco, floods, Mexico

Thousands have been hit by floods in Mexico, forcing many to flee amid reports of looting and warnings of a possible health crisis.

A week of heavy rains caused rivers to overflow in the state of Tabasco, with at least one death reported.

A week of heavy rains caused rivers to overflow in the state of Tabasco, with at least one death reported

Much of the state's capital Villahermosa was affected, with tens of thousands of people stranded on rooftops or the upper floors of their homes.

Nearly all services, including drinking water and public transportation, have also been shut down.

Mexican President Felipe Calderon said: "We know that it is not only the worst catastrophe in Tabasco's history, but it is one of the worst in the recent history of the country."

At least 6,000 people were believed to have fled to shelters in Coatzacoalcos and nearby Minatitlan, both in neighbouring Veracruz state.

Rain gave way to sunshine on Friday but forecasters predicted more showers in the coming days. The flooding was not related to Tropical Storm Noel, which pounded the Caribbean.