Bolivia’s Rainy Season Claims 58 Lives, Leaves Many Homeless

Bolivia has suffered severe consequences from its rainy season, with 58 deaths, 10 missing, and 860,000 families displaced since last November. Five departments declared disasters; the government has marked a national emergency to facilitate aid. Experts predict this rain will continue until May 15, calling it an anomalous phenomenon.

Bolivia’s rainy season has taken a serious toll, with the death count climbing to 58. Reported missing stand at 10, while over 860,000 families have found themselves homeless since November last year, a senior official has revealed on Wednesday. This data was reported by Xinhua, highlighting the alarming impact of the ongoing weather events.

Juan Carlos Calvimontes, Bolivia’s Deputy Minister of Civil Defense, noted that rainfall levels this season have surpassed those of the last season, which poses significant challenges for the affected regions. “Rainfall during this period, up to April 2025, has been higher than that recorded during the previous season,” he stated during a press conference, emphasizing the severity of the situation.

In light of such overwhelming rainfall, five out of Bolivia’s nine departments have had to declare disasters, with three extra declaring a state of emergency to combat the crisis. This response shows the growing urgency as local governments deal with the catastrophic effects. The national government, led by President Luis Arce, declared a national emergency back in March. This was largely aimed at facilitating international aid flows into the country to help those affected.

Weather forecasts suggest that the extended rainy season is likely to persist at least until May 15, which puts additional strain on relief efforts and the communities affected. Lucia Walper, who heads the National Meteorological and Hydrological Service’s rain forecasting unit, commented on the unusual nature of these weather patterns. “We are experiencing a completely anomalous phenomenon,” she remarked, indicating that these conditions are unprecedented.

As the situation develops, the Bolivian government and international partners are likely to increase their efforts to assist those impacted by these environmental calamities. The next steps will be crucial in addressing both immediate needs and laying a foundation for long-term recovery efforts.

The heavy rains in Bolivia have resulted in a tragic loss of life and significant displacement. With a record rainfall leading to declared disasters and a national emergency, over 860,000 families are currently without homes. The unusual nature of this rainy season has raised concerns among meteorologists, and the situation is expected to continue impacting the country until mid-May. The government seeks to mobilize aid, addressing both immediate crises and future resilience.

Original Source: en.apa.az