URABA, COLOMBIA — Landslides have caused widespread devastation in the northwestern region of Chocó, Colombia, claiming the lives of at least 37 people, according to authorities from the Prosecutor’s Office. The exact number of injured individuals remains unknown, as the latest report did not disclose this information.
Governor Nubia Carolina Córdoba Curi expressed her deep sorrow for the situation, stating, “We are experiencing a very sad weekend for Chocó. Our people feel the pain of the victims. I will not rest until I make sure that all Chocoans have information about their relatives.”
These fatal landslides occurred along the road that connects the cities of Quibdó and Medellín. Colombia’s Vice President, Francia Marquez, revealed that heavy rainfall lasting 24 hours preceded this tragedy. Social media images circulated showing a large portion of land detaching from a mountain and falling onto several cars that were traversing the flooded road below.
In addition to the fatalities, 17 bodies have been transported to Medellín for forensic examination. Various agencies, including Colombia’s National Unit for Disaster Risk Management, Colombian Civil Defense, the National Army, the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, and the Chocó police department, have mobilized to respond to the incident.
Unfortunately, Colombia has experienced devastating mudslides in the past. In 2017, hundreds of individuals lost their lives due to torrential rains triggering a massive mud surge in the remote southern area of Mocoa.
The authorities will continue their efforts to gather more information and provide support to the affected communities. As the extent of the damage becomes clear, Colombia mourns the loss of lives and stands together in solidarity with those impacted by this natural disaster.