Tragic Colombia Landslide Claims 23 Lives, including Several Seekers of Shelter

According to local authorities, a landslide in north-west Colombia has caused the death of at least 23 people and injured around 30 more. The incident occurred on a road connecting the cities of Medellín and Quibdo, which had been closed due to several landslides. Many individuals seeking shelter from the adverse weather conditions gathered in a nearby house in Carmen de Atrato. Unfortunately, another landslide struck, burying the individuals and some vehicles. The mayor of the area stated that there are still people trapped under the debris. The region of Choco, where the incident took place, is densely forested and has experienced intense rainfall within the last day. Images circulating on social media and television display damaged cars partially submerged in mud and rocks. Colombian President Gustavo Preto has promised to provide any assistance needed to the Choco region, while Vice President Francia Marquez confirmed that approximately 30 individuals have sustained injuries. The mayor of Carmen de Atrato, Jaime Herrera, mentioned that some people are seriously injured, while others remain trapped beneath the landslide, although the exact number is unspecified. Although a drought is currently affecting Colombia, the country's Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology, and Environmental Studies has previously cautioned about the risks associated with heavy rains in areas bordering the Pacific and the Amazon rainforest.