Front-runners leading caravan arrive in Mexico City

MEXICO CITY — Central Americans from the migrant caravan that has become a major campaign issue in the U.S. midterm elections have begun arriving in Mexico City, still hundreds of miles from the border.

The migrants were being directed to a sprawling sports complex on the capital’s outskirts, where they were given food, water and provided basic services.

While hundreds had arrived in Mexico City by Monday, authorities say they expect as many as 5,000 migrants at the sports center by Wednesday.

Mexico City officials have said they would be able to provide for the migrants despite the fact that the city and its environs are facing a major water shortage this week as workers try to repair the city’s aging water infrastructure.