The heavy rains in El Salvador have resulted in the deaths of 19 people, including two young girls and four adults who were buried in their homes due to wall collapses and landslides. The country’s Civil Protection authorities issued a red alert and the Congress declared a state of national emergency for 15 days. The accumulation of water from the sustained rains has increased the risk of landslides and wall collapses, prompting authorities to warn residents of the dangers.
Rescue efforts have been underway to recover the bodies of the victims and provide assistance to those affected by the severe weather. The director of Civil Protection reported that they have responded to over 1,500 incidents, including fallen trees and obstructed roads. The continuous rainfall is expected to persist, with the possibility of a second tropical depression forming in the southwest Gulf of Mexico. This weather system will bring more rainfall and humidity to the region, exacerbating the situation in El Salvador.
The persistence of the heavy rains has prompted Salvadoran authorities to prepare 150 shelters to accommodate over 6,000 people across the country. Currently, 82 shelters are active, providing protection to 2,582 individuals, including 1,212 minors. The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has issued warnings about the ongoing weather conditions and the potential for further flooding and landslides. The government is working diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens in the face of this natural disaster.
The tragic deaths of the two young girls and four adults highlight the serious consequences of the torrential rains in El Salvador. The impact of the weather systems affecting the region, including Tropical Storm Alberto, has been devastating, leading to loss of lives and widespread damage. The efforts of the Civil Protection authorities and other emergency response teams are crucial in addressing the immediate needs of the affected communities and mitigating the risks posed by the ongoing weather conditions.
As the situation continues to unfold, it is imperative for residents in affected areas to heed warnings from authorities and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The government’s declaration of a state of national emergency underscores the severity of the situation and the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address the challenges posed by the inclement weather. The resilience and solidarity of the Salvadoran people will be critical in overcoming the impact of the natural disaster and rebuilding the affected communities in the aftermath of the devastating rains.
