Tonalá River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Tonalá River |
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Country | Mexico |
states | Tabasco and Veracruz |
Physical characteristics | |
River mouth | Gulf of Mexico |
The Tonalá River is an important river in Mexico. It starts in the hilly areas south of the Nezahualcóyotl Reservoir. This is a special spot where the borders of three Mexican states meet: Chiapas, Tabasco, and Veracruz. From there, the river flows mostly north-northwest. It eventually empties into the big Gulf of Mexico. For most of its journey, the Tonalá River acts as a natural border. It separates the states of Tabasco and Veracruz.
The Tonalá River: A Natural Border
The Tonalá River begins its journey in the southern hills. These hills are close to a large body of water called the Nezahualcóyotl Reservoir. This area is unique because it's where three different Mexican states come together. The river then flows towards the north. It travels across the land until it reaches the coast.
Where the River Flows
As the Tonalá River makes its way north, it forms a natural line. This line divides two important Mexican states. These states are Tabasco and Veracruz. The river acts like a long, winding fence. It shows where one state ends and the other begins. Finally, the river's waters join the vast Gulf of Mexico. This is a large body of water that is part of the Atlantic Ocean.
A Bit of History
The Tonalá River has been known for a long time. In the year 1518, a Spanish explorer named Juan de Grijalva led an expedition. His group was exploring the coast of Mexico. When they found this river, they gave it a different name. They called it "Rio de San Antonio." This name was used for a while before it became known as the Tonalá River.