When the Nevado del Ruiz volcano erupted in Colombia, it resulted in the deaths of approximately 20,000 out of 29,000 residents in the town of Armero, leaving the area in devastation.
The death toll from the surrounding areas increased the total loss of life to 25,000, and the town was eventually abandoned entirely.
One reason this volcanic eruption was so deadly is that it melted the glaciers on the mountain, generating a pyroclastic mudflow called a ‘lahar.’
It’s believed that the town of Armero was struck by three of these lahars, which caused additional deaths among those who had survived the initial eruption.
One of the most well-known victims was a 13-year-old girl named Omayra Sánchez Garzón, who became trapped under debris and volcanic mud.
Multiple rescue attempts were made to save Omayra’s life, but they were unsuccessful in freeing her. After several days, she sadly passed away.
Rescue efforts were made, but they were unsuccessful. In her final hours, those trying to save her could do little more than offer comfort. They placed a tire around her to keep her afloat while people brought her sweets and drinks.
