Bolivia’s Rainy Season Crisis: 58 Dead and Thousands Displaced

Bolivia’s rainy season has resulted in 58 deaths, 10 missing, and over 860,000 families displaced since November. The situation prompted a national emergency declaration, with five departments facing disasters. Rainfall levels are unusually high and expected to continue until May 15, raising concerns about further impacts.

Bolivia is grappling with the aftermath of a devastating rainy season that has claimed the lives of 58 individuals, left 10 unaccounted for, and rendered over 860,000 families homeless since November of last year. This alarming situation was reported by a senior official during a press briefing on Wednesday, as covered by APA and Xinhua.

Deputy Minister of Civil Defense, Juan Carlos Calvimontes, highlighted the severity of the rainfall, noting that it has exceeded levels recorded during the previous rainy season. “Rainfall during this period, up to April 2025, has been higher than that recorded during the previous season,” he stated, underlining the unusual weather patterns impacting the region.

In response to the escalating crisis, five of Bolivia’s nine departments have declared disaster zones, while three have enacted a state of emergency. In March, President Luis Arce’s administration officially declared a national emergency, facilitating the arrival of international aid to support those affected by the floods.

The prolonged rainy season is forecasted to persist until May 15, raising concerns about further repercussions. Lucia Walper, who oversees rain forecasting at the National Meteorological and Hydrological Service, described the situation as an unprecedented anomaly. “We are experiencing a completely anomalous phenomenon,” she remarked, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of this weather event.

The rainy season in Bolivia has resulted in significant loss of life and widespread displacement, compelling government intervention and international support. As rainfall continues, the situation remains critical, with officials urging readiness for further challenges ahead. Authorities stress the importance of addressing this anomalous weather phenomenon to mitigate its impacts.

Original Source: en.apa.az