TEGUCIGALPA, Nov. 7 (Xinhua) -- The Honduran Armed Forces continue to work alongside volunteers on Saturday in a race against the clock to rescue hundreds of people who have been trapped for more than two days on roofs and in trees amid widespread flooding following Hurricane Eta.
So far, at least 16,000 people have been rescued from flooded areas in the Sula Valley, said Max Gonzales, minister of the Permanent Contingency Commission (COPECO).
He explained that a team from Guatemala has joined rescue efforts and that throughout the affected area, various aircraft and vehicles are working around the clock to locate and rescue stranded victims.
In images broadcast by local media, people can be seen sleeping on the roofs of their houses while others wait for help in trees.
COPECO reported that at least 924 homes have been affected, with 36 completely destroyed, and that 20 bridges have collapsed and 905 roads have been severely damaged. Additionally, the death toll has climbed over 30, according to the latest reports from rescue brigades.
Eta has destroyed crops and drowned many cattle, in addition to causing damage to homes and infrastructure.
In addition, it has caused disruption of electricity, internet, and mobile phone services in the north of the country. Enditem