Heavy Rains Cause Devastation in El Salvador: Storm Emergency Update

According to national news organizations, the death toll from rains and mudslides across Central America rose Sunday to at least 80 dead. El Salvador, as one of the top ten most vulnerable countries in the world, has experienced the highest number of fatalities. Thirty-two people have died since the intense rain from a tropical depression began saturating El Salvador’s landscape about seven days ago. The death toll is expected to rise.

Among those dead is a family from the Monte Horeb Church in Ciudad Arce where ENLACE has worked since 2010. The family was home when it was washed away in a landslide yesterday. The church is serving as a temporary shelter for others in the community.

Landslide in Ciudad Arce. Photo: El Diario de Hoy

Mountainous terrain, soil erosion, and poor infrastructure, along with 15 centimeters of rain over a 12-hour period, creates a treacherous combination. We will keep you posted regarding emergency relief efforts as the churches and communities with whom we work organize their efforts. We ask for your prayers for Central America and for El Salvador, especially for those in Ciudad Arce who are mourning the loss of friends and family.