25 Jan 2024 | 02:08 PM UTC
Colombia: Authorities issue alerts across much of the country due to the threat of wildfires as of Jan. 25
Alerts issued across Colombia due to the threat of wildfires as of Jan. 25. Dozens of fires active; associated disruptions ongoing.
Authorities in Colombia have issued alerts for the threat of wildfires across most of Colombia as of Jan. 25. Dozens of wildfires have broken out across the country in recent weeks amid hot and dry conditions. More than 950 of the country's 1,101 municipalities were under alert for wildfires as of Jan. 24 and over 580 of these alerts were at the highest red level. As of Jan. 24, the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) has reported that there are 25 active fires across the country, of which nine are controlled. The fires are currently affecting 174 municipalities and more than 3,800 firefighting personnel are being deployed to tackle the conflagrations. One of the main fires of concern is burning in Jenesano Municipality in Boyaca Department which is threatening a national gas pipeline. Several fires are also burning in the hills around Bogota.
A combination of drought and the need for large amounts of water in firefighting operations has led to water distribution shortages in more than 60 municipalities across Colombia. Flight disruptions have been reported at Bogota's El Dorado International Airport (BOG) Jan. 24-25 due to reduced visibility caused by a combination of fog and smoke from wildfires. President Gustavo Ptero has announced he will issue a national natural disaster decree to allow resources to be mobilized to tackle the fires. Several departments have previously declared localized states of emergency due to the threats of wildfire and droughts.
Depending on the progression of the wildfires, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close additional routes within the wildfire complexes and evacuate more communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operators. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.
Heed all evacuation orders. Monitor official news sources. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected areas; road closures and detours will likely cause increased congestion and delays. Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in a "go-bag" that can be easily accessed. Charge battery-powered devices in case of prolonged power outages.
