Severe floods hit Bolivia, leaving at least 8 people dead

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms since December 10, 2023, have led to floods and river overflows in Bolivia, particularly in the Potosi and La Paz Departments, causing fatalities, missing persons, and widespread damage.

Since December 10, 2023, Bolivia has been enduring a severe weather crisis characterized by heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, especially in the Departments of Potosi and La Paz. This has resulted in severe floods and river overflows, bringing considerable hardship to the region.

In Cotagaita Municipality, Potosi Department, the floods have caused the deaths of three individuals, while five others remain missing. At least 2 130 families have been severely affected, with 1 500 in Potosi Department and 630 in Guanay Municipality, La Paz Department. The situation is compounded by blocked roads between Cochabamba and Santa Cruz Departments, damaged bridges and houses, and reported landslides​​.

States of emergency have been declared in various areas, and a red alert for river overflow has been issued for the Coroico, Mapiri, and Tipuani Rivers in the northern La Paz Department.

Across Bolivia, seven of the country’s nine departments have experienced river overflows. Reports indicate structural damage in at least 18 municipalities across Chuquiasca, Cochabamba, La Paz, and Tarija departments.

The floods have not only caused eight fatalities across the country but also displaced thousands of families and destroyed over 1 000 ha (2 471 acres) of crops. Many routes across Bolivia have become impassable due to the floods​​.

The National Meteorological and Hydrological Service (SENAMHI) warns of further heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, which may exacerbate the situation. Urban flooding and landslides are potential risks, especially in areas where the soil has become saturated due to the persistent heavy rainfall. These conditions could lead to mandatory evacuation orders in flood-prone communities and disruptions to essential services such as electricity and telecommunications​​.

In addition to the human toll, the flooding has significantly impacted Bolivia’s infrastructure. Floodwaters and debris flows have rendered some bridges and roadways impassable, impacting overland travel. The collapse of a bridge in Mairana, Santa Cruz Department, and the flooding of the Pirai River near Santa Cruz city are notable examples. These conditions have also led to the likelihood of flight delays and cancellations at regional airports and disruptions to regional rail lines​​.

References:

¹ Bolivia: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across the country as of Dec. 11 – Crisis24 – December 12, 2023

² Floods in Bolivia – DG ECHO – December 12, 2023

Featured image credit: NASA Terra/MODIS, The Watchers. Acquired on December 12, 2023