Saturday, December 27, 2008

Flooding Bolivia ( bbc)

Flooding in Bolivia by Matt Taylor

Several rain swollen rivers in central and eastern Bolivia have burst their banks, leaving roads closed and homes damaged.

The flooding was caused by days of torrential rain, marking the start of the annual wet season. Although the climate varies considerably throughout Bolivia, the majority of the rain falls during the summer months of November to March.

Bolivia is South America’s poorest country, and hence, floods can be particularly devastating for the residents. Last year, the rainy season was especially active, and flooding caused more than 60 deaths.

The Bolivian Meteorological and Hydrological Service is forecasting more heavy rain, hail and thunderstorms over the next week, with concerns this could lead to a worsening of the current flood situation.