Since early March, Bolivia has been battered by multiple episodes of heavy rainfall. In many areas, accumulations have reached between 100 and 200 millimeters, while some central and northern regions have seen totals exceed 300 millimeters. The heaviest precipitation has been reported in the central and western parts of Beni Department, southern La Paz Department, and western Santa Cruz Department, where local totals have surpassed 500 millimeters (see Figure 1).

The relentless rains have forced the government to declare a state of emergency on Wednesday as officials warn of potential secondary disasters—including river overflows, widespread flooding, and landslides across the country.

Looking ahead, forecasts indicate that from March 28 to April 2, scattered light to moderate showers will continue. However, in the areas hardest hit by the downpours—particularly parts of southern Beni, southern La Paz, and Cochabamba—expectations are for heavy rain or storm conditions, with some locations likely to experience intense, localized downpours (see Figure 2).

Figure 1: Accumulated Precipitation from March 1st to 26th, 2025 (Unit: mm)

Figure 2 Forecast of Accumulated Precipitation from March 28 to April 2, 2025 (Unit: mm)

Author: Li Xiaolan                                 Reviewer: Ma Jie 

English reviewer:Wang Yi                                                                       Issue approver:Dai Kan