Torrential Rains Kill at Least 33 People in Colombia

Bogotá – At least 33 people have died and 10 others are missing after torrential rains hit Colombia over the past 40 days, Colombia’s National Disaster Risk Management Unit (UNGRC) reported.

The agency explained in a statement that more than 21 thousand people (6,813 families) were affected between March 16 and April 26, a period in which 371 roads, 34 vehicle bridges and eight other pedestrian were damaged.

During this rainy season, 196 incidents between landslides and avalanches were recorded throughout the country: 82 floods, 43 floods, 12 storms, among others.

These incidents occurred in 22 of the 32 departments of the country, including the municipalities of Cundinamarca, Antioquia, Cauca, North Santander, Nariño and Tolima.

“We are going through the peak of the first rainy season in the country. Historically, April and May have been months that bring heavy rainfall and, therefore, different events are recorded such as landslides, floods, overflowing rivers,” said the director of the UNGRC, Eduardo José González.

The official assured that the rains will last until mid-June and that, therefore, the territorial authorities must be vigilant and keep their emergency plans and early warning system active.

“We also urge communities not to expose themselves in areas at risk, to avoid outdoor activities when it rains and not to stay near rivers and streams; to carefully follow the recommendations issued by local authorities and entities of the National System,” he added.