Dozens Killed in Devastating Landslides in Colombia
Tragedy strikes as devastating landslides claim the lives of 34 individuals in Colombia's Chocó region, according to official reports Our hearts go out to the affected families and communities
The governors office announced on Saturday that the landslides in Colombias northwestern Chocó region have resulted in at least 34 confirmed deaths. Currently, 17 bodies have been sent to Medellin for further examination, with plans to transport an additional 17.
"Chocó is facing a devastating weekend," stated Governor Nubia Carolina Córdoba Curi. "The suffering of the victims is deeply felt by our people. I am committed to ensuring that all Chocoans receive information about their loved ones and will not rest until this is achieved."
Vice President of Colombia Francia Marquez reported on X that the landslides occurred on a road between Quibdó and MedellÃn after the area was subjected to 24 hours of intense rainfall.
Reuters reported that images on social media captured the dramatic moment when a sizable landmass broke away from a mountain and crashed onto multiple cars traveling on the flooded road below.
A member of the rescue team stands at the area of a landslide in the road between Quibdo and Medellin, Choco department, Colombia on January 13, 2024.
Fredy Builes/AFP/Getty Images
People observe the area where of a landslide in the road between Quibdo and Medellin, Choco department, Colombia on January 13, 2024.
Fredy Builes/AFP/Getty Images
Authorities including Colombia's National Unit for Disaster Risk Management, Colombian Civil Defense, the National Army, the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, and the Choco police department have been activated to address the incident, Marquez added.
In the past, Colombia has experienced devastating mudslides. In 2017, a remote southern area of the country saw hundreds of casualties when heavy rains caused a surge of mud to sweep through the city of Mocoa.
