Colombia declares state of calamity after rains affect 1.2 million
Baku, November 19 (AZERTAC). Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos declared a state of calamity in 28 of the nation`s 32 states Thursday due to heavy rains and flooding that have affected 1.2 million people.
Flooding and mudslides have killed 136 people, injured 205 and left 20 missing, the nation`s Interior and Justice Ministry reported.
Emergency officials say the heavy rain has led to problems in 561 municipalities in the South American nation.
The flooding has cause losses in the nation`s crops and livestock, officials said.
Santos made the announcement on national TV, saying the declaration will help get aid to those who need it.
He decided to declare the state of calamity after meeting Thursday with ministry officials in the presidential palace, Casa de Narino.
“The conclusions are fruitful,” Santos said afterward. “We have made decisions that will be implemented starting Friday.”
Meteorologists are predicting rain for the next two weeks over large parts of the country, with heavy downpours expected in the next few days.
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