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Bolivia Floods: Death Toll Climbs to 20, More Feared
15 Dec
Summary
- Bolivia's Santa Cruz region faces rising death toll of 20 from floods.
- Over two dozen people are missing, with hundreds of families displaced.
- Deforestation is cited as a worsening factor for the severe flooding.
In Bolivia's eastern Santa Cruz region, devastating floods triggered by the overflowing River Pirai have claimed at least 20 lives. Authorities report over two dozen people are still missing, and hundreds of families have been left without shelter following days of intense rainfall. Rescue operations are ongoing, with helicopters airlifting survivors from inundated areas. The severe weather has caused significant damage, including the collapse of a river bridge.
Officials attribute the worsening flood situation partly to widespread deforestation over the past two decades, noting the significant loss of forest cover. The combined effects of El Nino and La Nina weather patterns are also cited as contributing factors, leading to heavier rainfall in the Amazon basin. President Rodrigo Paz criticized previous administrations for inadequate emergency response resources.
While rescue efforts are intensifying, with hopes for improved weather conditions to aid receding water levels, the President warned that the crisis is far from over. The government is assessing the situation and aiming to enhance emergency response capabilities in the face of such natural disasters.
