Colombia: Officials declare state of public calamity in La Guajira Department as of Nov. 9 due to heavy rainfall, flooding, and consequent damage

Authorities have declared a state of public calamity in La Guajira Department as of Nov. 9 due to recent heavy rainfall and the passage of Tropical Storm Rafael. The heavy rainfall has reportedly caused flooding, damaged and closed roads in the region, and led to consequent food shortages. The state of public calamity effectively authorizes governmental officials to marshal needed resources and accelerate the delivery of humanitarian aid to affected communities.

As of Nov. 9, the Colombian Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (IDEAM) had issued a red hydrological alert (the highest level on a four-tier scale) for much of La Guajira Department, including the Riohacha area, and an orange alert for the rest of the department. Officials may update or rescind existing weather alerts or issue new ones over the short term.

More heavy rainfall may affect parts of La Guajira Department over the coming days. Additional rain would likely exacerbate the situation, causing further flooding and damage to road networks. Authorities could issue evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are likely where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks. Weather-related flight disruptions at Almirante Padilla Airport (RCH), serving Riohacha, cannot be ruled out.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some additional bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces will likely cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities will probably temporarily close any additional 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. Disruptions to the provision of public services are also possible in areas affected by flooding.