Bolivia floods kill at least 20
Mudslides devastate communities as rescuers search missing
Rescue teams continued operations in waist-deep water and mud after catastrophic floods and mudslides in eastern Bolivia left at least 20 people dead and dozens missing. The disaster struck when an overflowing river sent a wall of water and mud through residential areas in the Santa Cruz region, devastating 11 communities and affecting some 600 families. Drone footage showed entire houses in El Torno almost buried under thick mud and debris, with streets clogged by logs and branches.
Firefighters used rubber boats to evacuate trapped residents and helicopters airlifted people from districts cut off by the deluge; soldiers and volunteers joined emergency crews digging through sludge with heavy machinery and hand tools. Hospitals treated dozens for fractures, hypothermia and trauma, while temporary shelters were established for families who lost homes and possessions. At least two dozen people remain unaccounted for as teams search previously inaccessible areas.
Local officials said the floods struck suddenly, leaving little time for escape as mud poured into houses and swept away vehicles and livestock. Survivors were seen clearing mud from damaged dwellings and searching photos for missing relatives. Power and water supplies were disrupted, raising concerns about access to clean drinking water and the risk of disease outbreaks; health authorities urged precautions.
Authorities attributed the scale of the disaster to saturated soils and prolonged seasonal rainfall and noted that settlements near riverbanks and hillsides are especially vulnerable. The government declared a state of emergency for the affected area and pledged financial aid and reconstruction support, while calling for improved early warning systems and better land-use planning to reduce future risks.
With rain still forecast in parts of the region, emergency services remain on high alert. Officials said recovery and cleanup will be lengthy given the depth of mud and debris, and warned the death toll could rise as rescuers continue to comb damaged neighborhoods. Civil and military authorities emphasized the need for immediate humanitarian assistance and longer-term measures to strengthen community resilience against similar extreme-weather events.
