At least 13 people were killed Monday by landslides caused by Storm Fernand in the eastern state of Veracruz, local authorities reported.

Fernand came ashore Sunday night near the port of Veracruz, dumping heavy rains that killed nine people in the town of Yecuatla, three in the municipality of Tuxpan, and one in Atzalan community, Veracruz's Civil Protection office said.

The storm forced Mexican authorities to declare a red alert in Veracruz, which caused the suspension of classes, and some 3,000 people were evacuated in four municipalities for the fears of flooding.

Fernand weakened Monday morning to tropical depression as it passes through Veracruz, but the Mexico National Weather Service said heavy rains may extend to the northeastern and central states, recommending the general population and maritime navigation in the vicinity of the system, to maintain precautions and follow the instructions by authorities of the national civil protection.

The U.S. National Hurricane Center, based in Miami, said that the weather phenomenon will follow its journey northwest with maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour and will weaken to dissipate during the day or the following night. Endi

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