Thousands evacuated in Bolivia, Peru

2013-03-16 26

Intense rain this week has caused rivers in western Bolivia and Peru to overflow forcing thousands from their homes.

At least 6,000 families have been evacuated in Bolivia. Farmland and crops have also been destroyed.

A state of emergency has been declared as aid workers deliver supplies. Some residents stayed and tried to remove the water by hand.

(nats crying woman)

In Peru residents watched as landslides caused homes and buildings to collapse.

Meteorologists say with higher than normal precipitation levels, rivers and bodies of water are being pushed beyond their capacity.