Local Woman Describes Terrifying Irpavi River Swallowing Home, Causing Widespread Flooding in La Paz, Bolivia

A local woman recounted to Reuters a harrowing experience with the Irpavi River on the night of February 20th. According to her, the river encroached upon her house, swallowing the 82 feet (25 meters) that separated her home from the waterbed. The ensuing flood damaged her residence, forcing her family to remain vigilant throughout the night. The precarious situation also poses a threat to several other buildings in the area, putting them at risk of being washed away.

Response from Authorities

In response to the crisis, authorities have taken swift action, mobilizing workers and heavy machinery to various areas of La Paz to conduct mitigation and emergency works. These efforts are crucial in addressing the immediate risks posed by the rising river and the potential devastation it could cause.

The Bolivia's National Service of Meteorology and Hydrology (Senamhi) provided alarming data, indicating that the accumulated rainfall in February 2024 has reached 5.5 inches (140.4 millimeters). This figure significantly surpasses the normal accumulated rainfall of 18.5 gallons per square yard (83.8 liters per square meter). The excessive rainfall has contributed to the swelling of the Irpavi River, exacerbating the threat it poses to the surrounding areas.

Transformation

A local woman's firsthand account detailed the terrifying events that unfolded on the night of February 20th when the Irpavi River surged, breaching the 82 feet (25 meters) distance that had previously separated her home from the river. The destructive force of the flood caused substantial damage to her residence, forcing her family to remain on high alert throughout the night. Moreover, the perilous situation has cast a shadow of uncertainty over other buildings in the vicinity, leaving them vulnerable to the relentless force of the river.

Rapid Response Efforts

In light of the escalating crisis, authorities wasted no time in responding, swiftly mobilizing workers and heavy machinery to various areas of La Paz. Their primary objective is to execute crucial mitigation and emergency works, addressing the immediate threat posed by the swelling river and working to avert potential devastation.

Disturbing Meteorological Data

Data furnished by Bolivia's National Service of Meteorology and Hydrology (Senamhi) painted a grim picture, indicating that the accumulated rainfall in February 2024 has skyrocketed to 5.5 inches (140.4 millimeters). This figure starkly contrasts with the normal accumulated rainfall of 18.5 gallons per square yard (83.8 liters per square meter), highlighting the extraordinary nature of the situation. The abnormal precipitation has played a significant role in inundating the Irpavi River, intensifying the peril faced by the surrounding areas.