Bolivia Floods: Death Toll Rises Amid Ongoing Rescue Efforts

As of December 15, 2025, the death toll from severe flooding in Bolivia's eastern Santa Cruz region has reached 20, with at least two dozen individuals reported missing. The floods were triggered by the overflowing Piraí River, exacerbated by heavy rainfall that began early on December 12. Deputy Civil Defense Minister Alfredo Troche confirmed that rescue teams are still reaching previously inaccessible areas, and the number of affected families has risen to approximately 2,100. Hundreds have been left homeless, and around 300 individuals have been rescued by helicopter.

In Bolivia, floods have claimed 20 lives, with at least two dozen people missingThe Straits TimesUsNews and World ReportThe death toll from the floods in Bolivia's most populous region rises to seven.

Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz, who took office just last month, has been actively involved in assessing the situation. He criticized previous administrations for inadequate emergency preparedness and highlighted the role of widespread deforestation in worsening the flooding. Paz noted that Bolivia lost 10.4 million hectares of forest to fires in 2014, which he believes has contributed to the current crisis. He stated, "This is not over, it's just beginning," indicating that the situation may worsen before it improves.

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Rescue operations are ongoing, with crews utilizing heavy machinery to clear debris and restore access to affected communities. Video footage has shown bridges collapsing under the floodwaters, complicating rescue efforts. In El Torno, one of the hardest-hit municipalities, a shelter has been established to accommodate displaced families, and humanitarian aid is being organized. The local government is prioritizing the evacuation of vulnerable populations, including minors from a rehabilitation center.

The death toll from the floods in Bolivia's most populous region rises to seven.

Meteorologists have attributed the intense rainfall to the combined effects of the El Niño and La Niña weather patterns, which are producing heavier precipitation in the Amazon basin. Authorities expect weather conditions to improve in the coming days, which may aid ongoing rescue efforts as water levels recede.

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While the official death toll stands at 20, some reports have indicated discrepancies regarding the number of missing individuals and the extent of damage. The government plans to declare a "departmental disaster" to facilitate coordination with national authorities and enhance aid efforts.

The death toll from the floods in Bolivia's most populous region rises to seven.

• “We unfortunately have 16 more confirmed bodies, bringing the total to 20. And we have two dozen missing,” — Alfredo Troche, Deputy Civil Defense Minister

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• “This is not over, it's just beginning,” — Rodrigo Paz, President of Bolivia

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The situation remains critical as authorities continue to respond to the floods, with ongoing assessments of the damage and the needs of affected communities.

In Bolivia, floods have claimed 20 lives, with at least two dozen people missing