Since the onset of the rainy season in May 2023, Guatemala has been grappling with the destructive forces of heavy rainfall and strong winds. The relentless downpours have triggered floods, landslides, and numerous severe weather-related incidents, resulting in tragic casualties and significant damage across the country.

As of 27 July, the National Coordination for Disaster Reduction (CONRED) has reported a distressing toll of the disaster's impact. Sixteen people have lost their lives in various Departments, with fatalities spread across eight different regions. In addition to the fatalities, four individuals have sustained injuries, while a staggering 3,084 people have been forced to evacuate from their homes to seek safer ground. The torrential rains have affected more than 916,000 people, leaving many communities in dire need of assistance and support.

The incessant rainfall shows no sign of abating, further exacerbating the already dire situation. According to CONRED, southern and southwestern regions of Guatemala are bracing for even more rainfall with the possibility of locally heavy rain over the next 24 hours. This forecast raises concerns about the potential for additional flooding, landslides, and damage to vulnerable communities.

In response to the unfolding disaster, Guatemalan authorities and emergency services are working tirelessly to provide aid, evacuate those at risk, and offer support to affected individuals and families. However, the scale of the disaster poses significant challenges to relief efforts, with resources stretched to their limits.

The situation demands heightened vigilance from citizens in affected areas as well as a coordinated response from various agencies and organizations to ensure the safety and well-being of those in harm's way. As the rainy season continues, the people of Guatemala are urged to stay informed about weather updates, heed evacuation orders, and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their communities from the ongoing onslaught of severe weather events.

UPDATE: AUG 

nts:The humanitarian impact continues to increase in the most parts of Guatemala following the rainy season that has been affecting the country since May 2023. As of 3 August, 22 people died in nine Departments, one is still missing, and four have been injured. In addition, 4,224 people have been evacuated and almost 1,281,000 others affected.