Las victims due to recent rains, landslides and floods that have occurred in Bolivia, since the beginning of the rainy season, they reach 11 according to the latest report provided by the countryS authorities on Tuesday.
The most recent case is that of a 13-year-old teenager in the eastern city of Santa Cruz, who fell into a drainage ditch and is believed to be beyond rescue due to the force of the water dragging him several kilometers, according to what was reported. a preliminary report from the Fire Brigade. Deputy Civil Protection Minister Juan Carlos Calvimontes told the media that the tenth victim was a shepherd struck by lightning in the western region of La Paz.
Calvimontes commanded relief efforts today in the municipality of Colcapirhua, near Cochabamba (center), where overflow of a river due to the obstruction of a drainage channel, which affected several homes and businesses in the area, and no injuries were reported.
Four people, including two minors, died as a result of the accident on Sunday slip and collapse of a mass of land that crushed his homeat an event in the tropical region of Cochabamba.
The other deaths correspond to the start of the country’s rainy season a month ago and include three deaths in the southern region of Chuquisaca, one in La Paz and one in Tarija.in Chuquisaca,at the beginning of November,two people died,swept away by a river in flood due to the rains,in the town of Presto,and also a 14-year-old teenager who was struck by lightning while grazing sheep in a rural district of the city of Sucre,the constitutional capital of Bolivia. In Tarija an elderly man died crushed by a wall that fell due to a flood, while in La Paz there was the case of a 5-year-old girl who was buried in a flood of mud in the Bajo Llojeta neighborhood. , after heavy rain that lasted more than a week.
Likewise, the Bolivian authorities have identified more than 200 families affected due to the recent natural disasters that occurred in the country.
How can communities better prepare for future natural disasters according too disaster management experts?
Facing Nature’s Fury: An Interview with Disaster Management Expert Dr. Laura Mendoza
By Time.news Editor
As Bolivia grapples with the aftermath of catastrophic rains, landslides, adn floods, we sought insight from disaster management expert Dr. Laura Mendoza. With over a decade of experiance in dealing with natural disasters and their effects on communities, Dr. Mendoza sheds light on the situation and offers invaluable advice for those affected.
Q: Dr. Mendoza, can you provide an overview of the recent flooding and landslides in Bolivia?
A: Certainly.The country has faced a significant challenge as the beginning of the rainy season, with tragic consequences—11 reported victims thus far. Events like the recent case in Santa Cruz, where a 13-year-old boy fell into a drainage ditch and was swept away, demonstrate the extreme severity of the situation. Also, unfortunate incidents like the shepherd struck by lightning in La Paz remind us that thes natural phenomena can have dire effects beyond just flooding.
Q: what does this situation indicate about the preparedness of communities in Bolivia?
A: This crisis highlights a considerable gap in disaster preparedness and response. While authorities,such as Deputy Civil Protection Minister Juan Carlos Calvimontes,are commanding relief efforts and assessing damage,the scale of these events suggests that more proactive measures are essential. The identification of over 200 affected families underscores the urgent need for better infrastructure and community planning to mitigate future disasters.
Q: Are there any particular vulnerable groups that have been disproportionately affected?
A: Yes, indeed. Families in low-lying areas, especially in Cochabamba and Tarija, are at higher risk during such weather events. Children and elderly individuals are frequently enough among the first to suffer the consequences; for example,we witnessed tragic cases such as the 5-year-old girl buried in mud in La Paz and the elderly man crushed by a collapsing wall. Vulnerability assessment must be improved, focusing on local conditions and addressing the moast at-risk populations.
Q: What practical advice can you offer to individuals living in areas at risk of flooding?
A: First and foremost, it’s crucial for residents to stay informed about weather forecasts and potential warnings issued by local authorities. Establishing an emergency plan within families can also save lives—this includes identifying safe evacuation routes and assembling an emergency kit. Additionally, reinforcing homes to withstand natural disasters and participating in local community drills can significantly enhance overall safety.
Q: How can the government improve its response to such natural disasters?
A: Investing in better drainage systems and flood control infrastructure is key to preventing future tragedies. Moreover, the government should prioritize the education of communities regarding disaster preparedness and strengthen local response teams through training. Continuous monitoring of natural disaster risks will also allow for more timely and effective interventions.
Q: As we look to the future, what is your vision for disaster response in Bolivia?
A: My vision is for a collaborative approach that combines government efforts, community participation, and international support. By fostering resilience at all levels, we can not only respond effectively to disasters but also minimize their impact. It’s essential to establish a culture of preparedness and engage citizens in the process, making our communities safer and better equipped for the challenges ahead.
As Bolivia faces significant challenges from nature’s fury, expert insights like Dr. Mendoza’s provide hope and highlight the critical need for improved disaster management strategies. To stay informed on such pressing issues and learn how to prepare for natural disasters, follow Time.news for ongoing updates.