Bolivia Floods Kill 20 as Heavy Rains Hit Santa Cruz

Bolivia is facing a serious natural disaster after heavy rain caused severe floods in the department of Santa Cruz. Government officials confirmed that at least 20 people have died, while more than 20 others are still missing. The disaster followed days of intense rainfall that led rivers to overflow, damaging homes, roads, and entire communities. Authorities say rescue and search operations are ongoing.

Deputy Minister of Civil Defense Alfredo Troche said that the first reports showed seven deaths, but the number increased as floodwaters slowly receded and rescue teams reached more areas. He warned that the death toll could rise further in the coming days as access improves and missing persons are located. Santa Cruz has now been officially declared a disaster zone due to the scale of destruction.

The flooding began late Friday night when continuous rain caused the Pirai River and other nearby waterways to burst their banks. At least 22 communities were affected, with El Torno municipality among the worst-hit areas. Many residents were caught by surprise as water levels rose quickly, leaving little time to escape. Entire neighborhoods were submerged under water.

Officials said dozens of families had to be evacuated urgently to safer areas. Around 600 families were affected in El Torno alone. In another area, Colpa Belgica, nearly 1,500 families suffered damage after flooding destroyed homes and farmland. A major bridge collapse in the area cut off a key road connection to the city of Warnes, worsening the situation.

Rescue teams, emergency workers, and local authorities continue to search for missing people while also providing food, shelter, and medical help to displaced families. Troche said rescue efforts are challenging due to damaged infrastructure and unstable weather conditions, but teams are working around the clock to reach isolated communities.

With more rain forecast in the coming days, the Bolivian government has ordered emergency relocation of people living in high-risk zones. Authorities are also preparing to declare a national emergency to speed up aid, mobilize resources, and provide long-term support to affected families as the country responds to this growing crisis.