Bolivia’s Rainy Season Leads to 58 Deaths and Displacement of 860,000 Families
Bolivia’s rainy season has led to 58 deaths and left over 860,000 families homeless since last November. Authorities have declared national emergencies in five departments, with expectations of continued rainfall until May 15. The Deputy Minister of Civil Defense highlighted the higher-than-usual rainfall, labeling it an anomalous phenomenon.
Bolivia is grappling with a severe rainy season, which has tragically resulted in 58 fatalities, 10 individuals reported missing, and over 860,000 families displaced since last November. This information was conveyed by Deputy Minister of Civil Defense, Juan Carlos Calvimontes, during a press briefing earlier this week, as reported by Xinhua.
Calvimontes noted that the rainfall this season, which continues through April 2025, has significantly exceeded the totals from the previous year. This increase in precipitation has wreaked havoc across the nation, prompting five out of the nine departments to declare disaster statuses while three have formally declared states of emergency.
In response to the escalating crisis, President Luis Arce’s administration declared a national emergency in March, which facilitates the influx of international aid. Such measures have become crucial as the rainy season shows no signs of abating, with forecasts suggesting that heavy rains may persist until May 15.
Lucia Walper, who heads rain forecasting at the National Meteorological and Hydrological Service, described the current weather conditions as a “completely anomalous phenomenon.” This unusual weather pattern has placed immense pressure on regional infrastructure and raised concerns among officials regarding the safety and well-being of affected communities.
Authorities are now focused on emergency response efforts and coordinating aid to those impacted, though challenges persist due to the scale of destruction. The situation continues to develop as residents and government officials brace for further rainfall and its repercussions.
The ongoing rainy season in Bolivia has resulted in substantial loss of life and widespread displacement, with officials reporting 58 deaths and over 860,000 families affected. The government’s declaration of a national emergency is a critical step in mobilizing much-needed international assistance. As the adverse weather pattern continues, officials are urging the public to be alert to ongoing risks and preparing for further emergency responses.
Original Source: en.apa.az
