Landslides have become a recurring problem in several geographical areas, generally associated with torrential rains, unstable and saturated soils and a topography prone to this type of event. In recent days, there have been reports Numerous incidents causing roadblocks, damage to infrastructure and risks to the lives of residents, forcing authorities to respond quickly and effectively to prevent further tragedies.
Faced with the increase in the frequency and intensity of rainfall, different regions have intensified their surveillance and prevention systems, emphasizing the need for emergency protocols, early warnings, and evacuation plans to protect the population and minimize socioeconomic and environmental impacts.
Recent impacts on infrastructure and communities
In recent days, different points have experienced total and partial road blockades due to landslides caused by extreme rainfall. For example, on the connecting road between Lai Chau and Lao Cai in Asia, a landslide completely blocked the road and even left numerous drivers stranded. Authorities managed to temporarily open the way for motorcycles while larger vehicles had to find alternative routes.
In Ecuador, the road that connects Narupa and Coca was closed after a mound of earth completely covered both lanes, forcing travelers to travel on foot. Emergency teams deployed heavy machinery to clear the road and recommended taking alternative routes while the situation was resolved.
In Colombia, the department of Caldas has faced the closure of more than five road corridors, mainly in the western and northwestern regions. Cleanup work has been ongoing for weeks, and in some cases, traffic restrictions are in place for certain hours due to the risk of further landslides.
Heavy rains are also affecting Mexico, where regions such as Hidalgo and Puebla have reported multiple incidents. In the Sierra Negra of Puebla, landslides have blocked several roads and caused flooding, while in the state of Hidalgo, several mountain ranges and municipalities are highly vulnerable to the possibility of further landslides.
Rapid responses and preventive evacuations
In some cases, the Early response and local coordination have been crucial in avoiding human lossesThe recent experience in the village of Zhonghe (Guangdong, China), affected by a landslide following a typhoon, highlights the importance of weather alerts and the experience of community leadersA timely evacuation ensured no residents were injured, and cooperation between neighbors and authorities was essential to everyone's safety.
Other regions have strengthened their monitoring geological faults and maintaining alert declarationsIn Tegucigalpa, Honduras, more than 17 activated faults led authorities to redouble surveillance and warn of soil saturation and the risk of landslides and urban flooding. The recommendation to exercise extreme caution and stay informed is echoed in multiple areas across the continent.
Risk factors and guidelines for prevention
The main triggers of landslides are: erosion, soil saturation due to rain and seismic activity. The human intervention, such as construction or land-use changes, also contribute to increased risk. Mountainous areas and areas with steep slopes are especially vulnerable during periods of heavy rain or hurricanes, with municipalities such as Tulancingo, Mineral del Chico, and Huasca de Ocampo in Mexico being particularly critical due to their geology and topography.
To reduce the impact of these episodesProper land-use planning and risk assessment in vulnerable areas are essential. Constant monitoring and the implementation of early warning systems are essential. The public should follow official instructions, avoid littering that could clog drains, and avoid crossing dangerous roads or rivers after rain.
The activation of temporary shelters, the suspension of classes, and the mobilization of emergency teams are among the actions implemented in various provinces to protect rural and urban communities.
