Access to four Oaxaca towns has been cut off after a bridge was severely damaged by a river that overflowed its banks.

More than 2,000 residents of the towns, all of which are located in the municipality of Huajuapan de León in the northwestern part of the state, have been affected by the washout.

The state Civil Protection office has reported that 11 other municipalities were affected by the heavy rainfall seen in large parts of the Mixteca and Valles Centrales regions of the state.

Personnel equipped with heavy machinery are setting up a provisional crossing where the bridge was washed out and supplies are being delivered to the communities.

Civil Protection authorities have also set up shelters throughout the affected area.

Elsewhere in the state, the Civil Protection office has issued a swell warning. Big waves caused by the mar de fondo have already caused damage in at least 15 coastal communities, including the resort destinations of Huatulco, Zipolite and Puerto Escondido.

The warning remains in force until further notice. Authorities have restricted beach and fishing activities, setting up red flags to warn beach-goers.

Source: Milenio (sp)