Landslide in Northwestern Colombia Leaves at Least 11 Dead and Many Missing
At least 11 people have lost their lives in a landslide in northwestern Colombia following heavy rains. The disaster struck crowded neighborhoods, resulting in over a dozen homes being buried. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with around 15 individuals still unaccounted for and emergency shelters established for thousands of displaced people.
In a tragic event, at least 11 fatalities have been reported due to a massive landslide in northwestern Colombia. Local authorities shared the grim news on Wednesday, detailing how heavy rains gave way to a devastating downpour of mud and debris that struck densely populated neighborhoods, destroying several homes. The landslide happened on June 24, causing widespread panic as families were caught off guard during their sleep.
Rescue teams are hard at work digging through the chaos in Medellin—the second-largest city in Colombia—and the neighboring town of Bello. Sadly, reports indicate that around 15 individuals remain unaccounted for. The local government has mobilized resources to assist those affected, as the search for survivors continues under challenging conditions, deploying dogs, drones, and other equipment to sift through the wreckage.
Mayor Lorena Gonzalez Ospina of Bello noted that the situation necessitated rapid action. Schools, community centers, and even a swimming pool have been converted into makeshift shelters for over 1,300 displaced individuals who cannot return home due to ongoing flooding. In an effort to protect residents further, Federico Gutierrez, the mayor of Medellin, has ordered the evacuation of more than 60 homes that have been deemed structurally unsafe after the landslide.
Sadly, landslides are not unusual in this lush region of Colombia, especially during the rainy season, which spans from April to November. The downpour led to overflowing streams on Tuesday morning, catching many residents by surprise. The floodwaters wreaked havoc, carrying away vehicles and belongings, leaving devastation in their wake.
On a brighter note, Colombia’s Weather Service has forecast lighter rainfall for Wednesday, suggesting a respite from the extreme weather earlier in the week. However, the community will need to brace for continued rain in the weeks ahead, reaffirming the ongoing risks associated with the region’s geography.
The landslide in northwestern Colombia has resulted in at least 11 confirmed deaths, with search operations ongoing for those still missing. The local government is responding quickly, providing shelter and evacuating unsafe areas. This tragic event highlights the dangers of landslides, particularly during the rainy season, as communities face the aftermath of this natural disaster. While lighter rains are expected, the threat remains.
Original Source: www.latestly.com
