BTN News: Heavy rains continue to wreak havoc across the Atlántico department in Colombia, with the municipality of Manatí suffering significant damage in the latest deluge. On Tuesday, September 10, a torrential downpour lasting three hours inundated multiple neighborhoods, leaving countless homes submerged and families scrambling to salvage their belongings. With over 1,200 families affected across the region, emergency services and local authorities are now conducting urgent assessments to quantify the damage and coordinate relief efforts. As the rainy season intensifies, communities throughout Atlántico brace for more challenges ahead.
Torrential Rains Leave Manatí Submerged
On September 10, Manatí, a small municipality in Atlántico, was hit by a powerful storm that lasted three hours, causing severe flooding across at least eight neighborhoods. Residents described the relentless rain as “devastating,” with water levels rising rapidly, inundating homes, and destroying personal belongings. For many families, the struggle continued into the early hours of Wednesday as they desperately tried to remove the water from their homes and secure what little remained undamaged.
Local Authorities Respond with Urgent Measures
In response to the flooding, teams from the Civil Defense and local government have been deployed to Manatí to conduct a comprehensive census. This initiative aims to document the number of people affected, assess property damage, and identify urgent needs for relief assistance. “We are working closely with municipal risk management councils across Atlántico to ensure swift action,” stated Nelson Oquendo, the Subsecretary for Disaster Prevention and Attention.
Broader Impact of Rainy Season on Atlántico
As of September 9, the ongoing rainy season has impacted 1,200 families across several municipalities in Atlántico, including Suan, Galapa, Campo de la Cruz, Malambo, Ponedera, Manatí, and Candelaria. The department’s Disaster Prevention and Attention team is actively collaborating with local authorities to manage the crisis, providing immediate support and resources where they are most needed. Over 500 aid packages containing essential supplies such as roofing materials, mattresses, hygiene kits, and food have already been distributed in Suan and Campo de la Cruz, with more support planned for other affected areas.
Relief Efforts and Community Response
The community’s resilience has been on full display, with neighbors coming together to assist each other in removing floodwaters and protecting what remains of their belongings. Despite the challenges, local organizations and authorities are working tirelessly to provide the necessary aid. However, the extent of the damage suggests a long road to recovery.
What’s Next for Atlántico?
With more rain forecasted in the coming weeks, Atlántico faces a continued threat of flooding. Local authorities are urging residents to stay alert and prepared for potential emergencies. The department’s disaster response teams remain on high alert, coordinating with national agencies to secure additional resources and prepare for further interventions.
Conclusion:
The severe flooding in Manatí is a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of the rainy season in Atlántico, Colombia. As communities band together to overcome the immediate impacts, the focus remains on safeguarding lives, protecting property, and ensuring that relief reaches those most in need. Continued vigilance and coordinated efforts by local and regional authorities will be crucial in navigating the challenges that lie ahead.
