RACE AGAINST TIME TO RESCUE PEOPLE

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Since 4 a.m., rescuers from various relief agencies, the army, firefighters, police officers, and the MOP have been racing against time to rescue seven people who were buried by a landslide that crushed the home where they lived near kilometer 8 of the old highway to Zacatecoluca.

The incident occurred in Colonia San Luis, in the jurisdiction of Santo Tomás, when rain was falling at its heaviest over much of the national territory. As soon as the tragedy became known, Comandos de Salvamento, together with other agencies, arrived at the site, but due to the large amount of earth, they had to wait for more equipment to arrive before beginning the work.

Around eight at night, the work continued. “There is hope that one of my relatives may still be alive,” said Salvadoran announcer Wilfredo Salamanca.

Colonia Santa Lucía once again experienced flooding problems, and Comandos de Salvamento managed to rescue a family that had taken refuge on the roof of their home; they were later taken to a shelter.

But there was destruction not only in this area. In Los Planes de Renderos, at Residencial Quintas Doradas, a landslide swept away several vehicles, leaving extensive material damage and damaged homes. Likewise, more landslides occurred in Urbanización San Marcos.

In addition, there were several landslides on various roads leading both to El Salvador International Airport and along the road to Los Chorros, among others.

So far, more than 25 deaths and nearly 10 affected people have been recorded in the wake of Storm Amanda.

Comandos de Salvamento of Ilopango rescues a family in Colonia Santa Lucía, in Ilopango.

Landslide affects Urbanización San Marcos.