As a result of heavy rains and subsequent floods in Bolivia, 20 people have died. This is reported in materials from Kazinform, citing information from Anadolu Ajansı.
Bolivia's Deputy Minister of Civil Defense, Alfredo Troche, informed local media about flooding in Santa Cruz, which was caused by the overflow of the Pirai River. As a result of this disaster, not only have human losses been recorded, but many people are also reported missing.
Troche added that rescue operations are ongoing without interruption and expressed condolences to the families of the victims.
In response to the situation, President Rodrigo Paz initiated the creation of a Crisis and Monitoring Center for more effective control over the developments in the affected regions. He also announced plans to introduce a national state of emergency in the affected areas.
The head of state noted that the consequences of the climatic phenomena El Niño and La Niña are still being felt and warned residents about possible heavy rains in the next three to five months, which may be followed by drought.
While authorities are concerned about the rising number of casualties, the material losses from the flooding are estimated in millions of dollars.
