Mexico’s death toll rises to 16 in mudslides, floods from remnants of Hurricane Karl

Death toll rises to 16 in Mexico from flooding

VERACRUZ, Mexico — Mexican authorities say at least 16 people have been killed in several days of flooding and mudslides across southern Mexico.

President Felipe Calderon says the death toll in the Gulf coast state of Veracruz rose to 12 over the weekend as the remnants of Hurricane Karl caused flash floods and mudslides.

Local officials say two people were killed when their homes collapsed in Guerrero and Oaxaca states.

Calderon spoke Monday during a visit to Veracruz state, which had already been suffering from weeks of widespread flooding.

Looting broke out in parts of Veracruz, with people carrying huge bags of food out stores in waist-deep water. State Public Safety Secretary Sergio Lopez said at least 11 people were arrested.