At Least 11 Dead After Landslide Buries Homes in Northwest Colombia

A landslide in northwestern Colombia has claimed at least 11 lives, with 15 others missing. Rescuers are actively searching for survivors amidst extensive flooding caused by heavy rains. Temporary shelters have been established for over 1,300 displaced residents. The region is prone to landslides, particularly during the rainy season from April to November.

A tragic landslide in northwestern Colombia has left at least 11 individuals dead, according to local officials reported on Wednesday. This disaster occurred after days of intense rainfall triggered a massive flow of mud that engulfed residences in the nearby crowded neighbourhoods, burying several homes under the debris.

In Medellin, Colombia’s second-largest city, teams of rescuers are tirelessly working through the wreckage, looking for signs of life. Unfortunately, around 15 people are unaccounted for, and hopes for their survival are dwindling. The authorities have transformed various buildings, including schools and a community pool, into temporary shelters for the over 1,300 individuals displaced by flooding, as indicated by Mayor Lorena Gonzalez Ospina of Bello.

The situation remains dire, as explained by Medellin’s Mayor Federico Gutierrez, who confirmed the death toll. Emergency services are utilizing search and rescue strategies that include drones, dogs, and other specialized equipment. In addition, the mayor has ordered the immediate evacuation of over 60 homes in Medellin deemed structurally unsound due to the landslides.

Landslides are not unusual in this lush region of Colombia, particularly throughout the rainy period that spans from April to November, where the downpours tend to destabilize the soil. The most recent floods that swept through the area were exacerbated by a prolonged period of heavy rain, causing streams to overflow while residents were asleep on Tuesday morning.

As debris-laden waters rushed through the neighborhoods, they carried away vehicles and personal belongings, delivering a devastating blow to many families. Fortunately, Colombia’s Weather Service has forecast milder rains for Wednesday, providing a slight reprieve from the extreme weather witnessed earlier in the week. This offers a glimmer of hope for both rescuers and residents still grappling with the aftermath of this natural disaster in Colombia.

The landslide tragedy in northwestern Colombia has resulted in significant loss of life and destruction, highlighting the ongoing risks of natural disasters in this region during the rainy season. Efforts continue to provide shelter for those displaced and to recover survivors from the wreckage. Authorities are on alert given the prevalence of such incidents amid heavy rains, signaling the need for ongoing vigilance and preparedness.

Original Source: www.latestly.com