2 people reported missing by rains in Sonora; search operation deployed

Two individuals have gone missing following heavy rains in Sonora, prompting a joint search operation involving Mexican and U.S. emergency services. The storms struck the border area between Nogales, Sonora, and Arizona, causing flash floods that swept away two people. Authorities began searching for them early Friday, July 17, after reports indicated they were carried away by floodwaters during a storm recorded the previous day. The search efforts are concentrated along the Rio Rico and Santa Cruz rivers in Arizona, which receive runoff from streams crossing from Nogales, Sonora. U.S. authorities are working alongside three units from Nogales' Fire Department, comprising 16 personnel, and staff from Sonora's Civil Protection agency. Preliminary reports suggest a body was spotted in U.S. territory, while the second victim’s identity remains unknown. Officials have not ruled out the possibility that both individuals were swept from Mexican soil into the United States due to the force of the streams crossing the border. A 19-year-old man was rescued alive earlier in the week after he was caught in a flooded area while riding a motorcycle. He managed to hold onto a metal structure as the current pulled him downstream. Local police entered the hazardous zone and successfully retrieved him. This incident highlights the dangers posed by sudden flooding, with officials warning residents against walking or driving through flooded streets or streams, even with vehicles equipped for such conditions. Authorities have issued warnings that weather conditions will persist throughout Friday. Additional rainfall is forecasted around 4 p.m. in Nogales, though the behavior of the monsoon system could alter this prediction. Civil Protection urged the public to stay informed through official media channels and social networks, and to follow alerts from the Early Warning System if activated. They also warned that precipitation levels might rise significantly in several key areas, including roads such as 5 de Febrero, Tecnológico, Jesús García, Orizaba, 5 de Mayo, Reforma, Abraham Zaied, Del Pino, Nuevo Nogales, Jesús Barboza, Buenos Aires, and Héroes, as well as extensions of Avenida Obregón and boulevards such as Nogales 2000, El Greco, Del Ensueño, and Kennedy. Officials reiterated their advice to avoid flooded areas and to use alternate routes if necessary. They also encouraged residents to call 911 immediately if a vehicle becomes stuck in floodwater. In addition, Civil Protection reminded the public that thunderstorms pose additional risks, urging people to avoid seeking shelter under trees or touching metallic objects during electrical activity. The situation underscores the unpredictable nature of severe weather in the region and the importance of adhering to safety guidelines. As the search continues, authorities remain vigilant and prepared for further developments.