A major tragedy has struck the Bello and Medellín regions of Antioquia, as a result of a massive landslide that has left dozens dead, missing, and hundreds homeless. The event, considered one of the worst natural disasters in recent memory in Colombia, has mobilized a large portion of emergency institutions and civil society to address its devastating consequences.
The intense rainfall that lasted for days saturated the ground in the Granizal area, causing a massive landslide that swept away homes and trapped numerous families. The alarm was triggered in the early hours of June 24, when the ground collapsed, leaving a scene of destruction in its wake and prompting an immediate response from the emergency services.
Balance of victims and missing persons
Official figures, which are constantly updated as rescue efforts progress, speak of At least 25 people dead and 8 still missingThe effort to identify victims and find those still under the rubble has continued since the disaster. Bello Mayor Lorena González and other spokespersons for the authorities have indicated that the number of missing persons could increase, as reports of people whose relatives have not been located continue to arrive.
Among the fatalities are residents of the area and people who were rescued alive but ultimately died in hospitals., due to the severity of his injuries. The incident has caused consternation in the community and prompted the deployment of 391 rescuers, including firefighters, Civil Defense, the Red Cross, specialized teams, and canines trained in search.
Impact on homes and communities
The displacement of nearly 75.000 cubic meters of earth directly affected more than 50 homes and left 1.600 people in a vulnerable situation.Many of them have lost their homes and belongings and have been evacuated due to the risk of further landslides. The number of victims also includes those seeking refuge in temporary shelters or with family and friends.
The municipality of Bello and the areas surrounding Medellín have experienced days of uncertainty as technical teams assess the safety of the remaining buildings and analyze the likelihood of further landslides.
Institutional response and citizen solidarity
From the beginning, the response of the authorities and the community has been key to addressing the emergency. Alarm and monitoring systems have been installed in the affected area, including cameras and sirens to alert the population of possible new landslides.The Antioquia Administrative Department of Risk Management (DAGRAN) and other agencies have coordinated aid distribution, debris removal, and psychosocial support for those affected.
Citizen solidarity has also been evident: Collection centers have been set up to receive donations of food, clothing, blankets, and basic necessities. intended for those who lost everything after the disaster. In addition, social and psychological support teams remain in the area to provide support to those who have suffered material and human losses.
Prevention and monitoring measures after the incident
Given the risk of similar events recurring, authorities have strengthened surveillance and monitoring at critical points in the region. The La Negra stream, whose flooding was key in triggering the avalanche, is constantly monitored to anticipate any emergency.Rain gauges and automatic alarms have been installed, enabling rapid response to new overflows.
Families living in high-risk areas are advised to follow evacuation orders and limit their travel in unstable areas until experts assure their safety. Traffic restrictions and the use of heavy machinery to remove debris are part of a comprehensive response and major risk prevention plan.
Recent weather conditions have improved, facilitating progress in rescue and cleanup efforts, although the threat of rain remains, making it necessary for all involved agencies to remain alert and prepared.
This incident highlights the importance of having effective prevention and response systems in regions vulnerable to natural disasters, strengthening collaboration between institutions and communities. The situation in Bello and Medellín remains delicate, and collaborative work will be essential for recovery and support for affected families.