Colombia: Landslides in Cali and Buenaventura

Event

Nearly 50 landslides have been reported in hilly areas of Cali and Buenaventura municipalities (Valle del Cauca department) in recent weeks, including at least four over the past weekend (June 2-3). In Cali, landslides have been reported in the following areas: La Paz, Felidia, El Saladito, La Elvira, La Leonera, Los Andes, and La Castilla. Further such incidents are likely in the coming days and weeks, amid ongoing heavy rain.

On a related note, orange alerts for flash flooding along rivers - the second-highest warning level - issued by the Colombian weather service IDEAM are in place as of June 4 in Cali and Buenaventura, as well as Jamundí, Restrepo, La Cumbre, and Dagua.  

Context

Flooding and landslides are common in Colombia during the rainy seasons, which typically occur in April-May and October-November. However, the current rainy season has continued into June. Generally speaking, the flood risk is highest along rivers and the landslide risk is highest in hilly or mountainous zones, particularly in poorer areas lacking proper building code standards.

Advice

Individuals in the above areas are advised to avoid hilly zones, keep abreast of weather forecasts, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.