In Colombia, at least thirty people have been injured by a powerful tornado that’s struck the northern coastal city of Barranquilla. Heavy winds have torn the roofs of more than a hundred buildings, including dozens of schools. Many children are among the wounded.

The unusual phenomenon caused panic among residents as power and phone lines came down. Uprooted trees in several areas have made it difficult for emergency services to reach the victims. Barranquilla is know for its heavy rains, which are caused by its proximity to the Magdalena river and its location below sea level. In the past, precipitation and a faulty drainage system have led to severe floods in the city.

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