Colombia: Flood and landslide risk continues June 9

Event

Various parts of Colombia remain on alert for flooding, landslides, and/or lightning strikes as storms once again hit the country. As of Friday, June 9, red alerts issued by IDEAM (Instituto de Hidrología, Meteorología y Estudios Ambientales) - the highest level - are in effect for parts of the departments of Chocó, Cesar, Cundinamarca, Huila, Magdalena, Meta, and Nariño. Lower orange alerts are in place in Antioquia, Bolívar, Boyacá, Casanare, Cauca, Córdoba, Santander, Sucre, and Valle del Cauca.

Context

Torrential rains resulted in innumerable floods and landslides in recent months in large areas of Colombia. These rains had been a near-constant phenomenon since late February and have resulted in hundreds of deaths and widespread damage. While precipitation levels have fallen over the past two weeks, the risk has not yet totally passed; as the ground remains saturated by recent flooding, even regularly low levels of precipitation can trigger flash floods and mudslides. 

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to keep abreast of the situation and to adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities (e.g. potential evacuation orders). Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs disposed of.