Landslide forces 350 people to evacuate, Guatemala

A landslide caused by recent heavy rainfall, has prompted authorities to evacuate 350 people in the province of Chinautla, Guatemala on Saturday morning, July 11.

The landslide completely destroyed 10 houses and moderately damaged further 11, according to the country's disaster management agency, CONRED. No death, or injuries were reported so far. CONRED has distributed blankets, sleeping mats, hygiene kits and clean water to people affected.

The landslide directly affected 105 people. The authorities estimated 49 homes in the area are still at risk of damage, which is why further 245 people, inhabiting the houses, were evacuated.

About 46 people are staying in the local community hall at the minute, while the rest of the displaced residents have temporarily moved in to their friends and relatives.

Guatemala landslide on July 11, 2015. Image credit: CONRED.

More than 40 mm (1.57 inches) of rain has been forecasted over the next 24 hours, by Guatemala's Meteorological department INSIVUMEH, in the northern parts of the country. The rivers Río La Pasión and Rìo Usumacinta and the lake Lago Petén are currently above normal maximum levels.

A warning for further heavy rainfall in southern and central regions of the country, from Wednesday, July 15, has been issued by INSIVUMEH.

Featured image: Landslide in Guatemala on July 11, 2015. Image credit: CONRED