Bolivia: Recovery operations ongoing in La Paz City as of Nov. 28 following flooding /update 1

Recovery operations are ongoing as of Nov. 28 in the Bajo Llojeta neighborhood of La Paz City following significant flooding and landslides. Heavy rainfall Nov. 23 resulted in the Pasajahuira River overflowing and flooding Bajo Llojeta. Officials evacuated more than 30 people. At least two people were killed and 26 injured, around 40 houses were destroyed, and more than 70 houses were damaged due to floods and landslides. Emergency crews and around 300 military personnel are assisting with the response operations. The Bolivian National Service of Meteorology and Hydrology (SENAMHI) forecasts more rainfall over the region through at least Dec. 1.

Protracted transport and business disruptions are likely in the affected areas as emergency crews continue recovery efforts. Further utility outages could occur over the coming days.

Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding may increase the incidence of insect-borne and waterborne diseases, such as cholera. Exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters could pose a serious health threat.