VERACRUZ, Mexico (AP) — At least two deaths are being attributed to Tropical Storm Ernesto, which has begun to dissipate after making landfall in Mexico's flood-prone southern Gulf region.
Officials say two fishermen drowned when the stormed passed through. Ernesto came ashore after spinning across the far southern Gulf of Mexico in waters dotted with oil rigs operated by the state oil company. The government closed its largest Gulf coast port, Veracruz, and two smaller ports.
Officials say the storm's strong winds ripped rooftops from several homes but residents refused to evacuate, fearing their possessions might be stolen.
One oil port got seven inches of rain and the National Hurricane Center says there is still potential for flooding and mudslides.
Winds have dropped to 35 mph and forecasters say the storm will fall apart later Thursday.
