An avalanche was reported last midnight as a result of overflow of the Mocoa, Mulato and Sancoyaco rivers as well as the Taruca creek, heavily affecting the city of Mocoa in the Department of Putumayo. According to the National Disaster Risk Management Unit (UNGRD), 17 neighborhoods in the municipality of Mocoa were affected and latest figures indicate 24 deaths reported, 120 injured and 300 families affected.
According to Prensa Nacional, at 12 am President Santos verbally reported 102 deaths, 180 injured and some 200 people missing. The Health Secretariat has informed that the health service network has functionally collapsed due to the massive influx of patients and limited operational capacity. Support has been requested for medical/surgical materials, mainly for sutures and healing. Other requested items include blankets, mattresses and tents for patient care, as well as clothes and food.
Road access to the affected area is blocked. There is no power nor access to potable water. The airports in Puerto Asís and Villa Garzón are both operational.
The PAHO/WHO office in Colombia is activated and in close contact with local health authorities to define lines of action and support. Authorities have mobilized national EMTs and are coordinating response efforts. International assistance has not been requested at this point.
Source: PAHO COUNTRY OFFICE