Colombia: Flooding and landslides cause disruptions in Cocorna Municipality, Antioquia Department, as of March 2

Event

Heavy rainfall and strong winds Feb. 28-March 1 triggered severe flooding and landslides in Cocorna Municipality, Antioquia Department, resulting in multiple casualties and road closures as of March 2. Heavy rainfall made La Guayabal stream overflow its banks and triggered dozens of landslides. The landslides have blocked many of the main roads in the municipality, leaving it largely cut off; sections of the Medellin-Bogota Highway have also been blocked by landslides. Authorities have reported one death and three injuries as a result of the flooding and landslides; additionally, over 80 homes have been damaged.

Moreover, officials have recommended that residents in more than a dozen homes in Cocorna Municipality evacuate due to the threat of further landslides. Authorities have declared a state of public calamity in the municipality to expedite recovery efforts.

The Colombian Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (IDEAM) has forecast further heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in the affected area through at least March 5, which could trigger additional landslides and flooding, as well as hamper recovery efforts.

Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities could call for further evacuations from flood- and landslide-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding or landslides have occurred and where further severe weather is forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Colombian Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (IDEAM) (Spanish)