Colombia: Widespread wildfire risk March 15

Event

Various parts of the country are on alert for forest fires as of Thursday, March 15. Red alerts issued by IDEAM (Instituto de Hidrología, Meteorología y Estudios Ambientales) - the highest level - are in effect for various municipalities in the departments of Antioquia, Arauca, Atlántico, Bolívar, Boyacá, Cauca, Cesar, Córdoba, Cundinamarca, La Guajira, Magdalena, Meta, Nariño, Norte de Santander, Sucre, and Valle del Cauca. Lower orange alerts are also in effect elsewhere in the country.

Context

Wildfires are common in Colombia, particularly during periods of drought and high temperatures.

Advice

Individuals present in areas affected by fires are advised to keep abreast of the situation and to adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities (e.g. potential evacuation orders).