At least 11 people have died in a landslide in northwestern Colombia following heavy rains that caused mud and debris to bury homes. Rescue workers are searching for 15 people still missing, as makeshift shelters accommodate over 1,300 displaced individuals. Local authorities are continuing search and rescue operations, highlighting the region’s vulnerability to such natural disasters during the rainy season.
At least 11 lives have been lost due to a landslide in northwestern Colombia, as reported by local officials on Wednesday. The devastating event unfolded after heavy rains prompted a massive wall of mud and debris that engulfed densely populated neighborhoods and buried numerous homes.
Rescue operations are currently underway in Medellin, Colombia’s second-largest city, and the nearby town of Bello. Emergency workers are sifting through the wreckage, searching for at least 15 individuals reported missing. This tragic event has led to widespread fear and despair among the residents.
In response to the disaster, authorities in Bello quickly converted local facilities—including schools, community centers, and even a swimming pool—into shelters. This rapid action has allowed over 1,300 individuals who either lost their homes or were unable to return due to flooding to find refuge, as stated by Mayor Lorena Gonzalez Ospina.
The landslide death toll, according to Medellin Mayor Federico Gutierrez, now stands at 11, while rescue efforts continue in Bello with the assistance of dogs, drones, and other equipment. In a related effort, over 60 homes in Medellin deemed structurally unsound have been evacuated for safety reasons.
It’s worth noting that landslides frequently occur in this lush region of Colombia, particularly during the rainy season, which typically spans from April to November. The recent surge of strong rainfall has consequently loosened the soil in the area.
The torrential rains lasted nearly two days, causing streams to overflow early Tuesday, while many residents were asleep. This flood quickly coursed through local streets, carrying debris and sweeping away vehicles and personal items in the process. Fortunately, Colombia’s Weather Service has forecasted only light rain for Wednesday, a stark contrast to the heavy downpours experienced earlier this week.
Authorities remain alert as they assess the aftermath of this tragedy and as rescue operations persist, hoping to find survivors amid the rubble of collapsed structures that once were homes.
The recent landslide in northwestern Colombia has resulted in a heartbreaking loss of at least 11 lives and has left many families displaced. Local authorities are working tirelessly to locate missing individuals and provide shelter for those affected. This region, prone to landslides during the rainy season, continues to face challenges from extreme weather events. While lighter rains are expected, the community grapples with the immediate impacts of this disaster and its aftermath.
Original Source: www.latestly.com