Bolivia – Torrential Rain Floods Santa Cruz

Hours of heavy rain from 21 June caused flooding in Santa Cruz City, Bolivia.

After the floods in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, 22 June 2020. Photo: Gobierno Autónomo Municipal de Santa Cruz de la Sierra

Interim mayor Angelica Sosa declared an emergency after heavy rain caused flooding in 62 neighbourhoods across 7 municipal districts. Officials said at least 175mm of rain fell in 11 hours between 21 and 22 June. Other reports suggested over 300 mm of rain fell in localized areas.

Military and local emergency teams were called in to evacuate residents. Some areas were under 2 metres of water. The local government has provided medical and food assistance to affected families.

Police reported that 2 people lost their lives as a result of the floods and heavy rain.

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