Landslide in Northwest Colombia Claims at Least 11 Lives, Rescue Efforts Underway

At least 11 people have died following a landslide in northwestern Colombia, triggered by heavy rainfall. Rescue efforts are ongoing as around 15 individuals remain missing. The local government has set up shelters for over 1,300 displaced individuals, while the region braces for more adverse weather during the rainy season.

In a tragic incident in northwestern Colombia, at least 11 people have died due to a landslide triggered by heavy rains, local authorities reported. The landslide occurred in Medellin and the nearby town of Bello, with rescue efforts currently underway. As of now, about 15 individuals are still unaccounted for, raising fears that the death toll may rise further as search operations continue.

Rescue workers are actively digging through the debris in hopes of locating survivors. They are utilizing dogs, drones, and various tools to assist in their search. Meanwhile, Mayor Federico Gutierrez of Medellin confirmed the evacuation of over 60 homes which experienced substantial structural damage due to the landslide. Additionally, temporary shelters have been established for displaced individuals.

In response to the disaster, local authorities in Bello opened schools and community centers as shelters for more than 1,300 people who lost their homes or could not return due to flooding. Mayor Lorena Gonzalez Ospina highlighted the urgency of providing safe refuge for those affected.

This region of Colombia is known for its susceptibility to landslides, especially between April and November during the rainy season, when the risk is heightened. The torrential rains, which battered the area for nearly two consecutive days, caused nearby streams to overflow, displacing residents in their sleep and carrying debris through the streets.

Colombia’s Weather Service provided a slight reprieve, stating that light rains were expected on Wednesday, markedly milder than the torrential downpours earlier in the week. But with the extensive damage already inflicted by the flooding and landslides, recovery efforts are likely to take considerable time and resources.

The devastating landslide in northwest Colombia has resulted in at least 11 fatalities and left a community grappling with extensive destruction. Rescue operations continue to be a top priority as officials address the needs of the displaced and work to prevent further incidents during the ongoing rainy season. The situation remains precarious, with continued attention required to support affected individuals and communities.

Original Source: www.latestly.com