There has never been such a situation for decades. Whole families had to run away

Bolivia has been struggling with one of the most severe floods in the last decades – reports the Reuters news agency. Its effects are felt, among others, by the inhabitants of the agricultural department of Beni. The areas of this region where cows could have been falling were sunk. Cattle breeders must wade in water to find a small piece of soil, which is suitable for animal grazing and has not been flooded.

Soy and ranch fields were under water, threatening food exports to foreign markets and leading to increases in local prices.

“The flood we are now experiencing is very unusual, very serious for this time of year,” said Gunther Amatller cattle breeder, saving his animals. – The water level is still rising. It is difficult to predict how much it will increase – he added.

According to local estimates, about 200,000 cattle, or about two percent of national participation, are at risk. Beni comes from beef delivered to all regions of the country, as well as exported abroad, e.g. to China. 590,000 families were affected by the floods. At least 55 people have died so far.

– My cattle suffers and the animals are emaciated. The flooded area is full of snakes and jaguars – regretted Teresa Vargas, the owner of the ranch.

In cities such as Puerto Almacen and Puerto Balliván, whole families left their homes, looking for a place in makeshift shelters on the roadside.

“We are forced to leave our homes,” said Mayra Peralta breaking in his voice. “The water is rising every day,” she added.

Others, like Edilbert Hauginoe, cook in hastily built camps in a higher area, trying to feed their children with what they can get out of the water.

– Rice is under water, it is similar with Plantan and Maniok. We cannot pull them out because it is too deep – Edilbert said. “We will sleep here until the water gives way,” she added.