Colombia: Disruptions due to landslide ongoing in Cauca Department as of early Jan. 11

Event

Disruptions following a landslide are ongoing in Cauca Department, as of early Jan. 11. The landslide occurred early Jan. 9 in Rosas Municipality and debris has fallen onto a 900-meter (2,953 feet) stretch of Highway 25, which links the departmental capital Popayan to the Narino departmental capital Pasto, and is a key route linking Colombia and Ecuador. The highway could remain closed for up to two weeks, causing major disruptions to travel in the department. As of Jan. 10, the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) has reported that more than 60 homes were destroyed in the landslide and more than 700 people have been affected. Several villages have been isolated by the incident. Authorities have stated that the landslide was likely caused by accumulated rainfall over recent weeks. Colombia's Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology, and Environmental Studies (IDEAM) has forecast further isolated rainfall and thunderstorms in the area over the coming days, which could trigger further landslides and hamper ongoing recovery efforts.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional landslides and 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 issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-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. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

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 has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (IDEAM)
National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD)