Colombia: Authorities responding to landslide in Risaralda Department as of early Dec. 6 /update 1

Event

Response operations are ongoing in Pueblo Rico, Risaralda Department, as of early Dec. 6 following a landslide on the Route 50 highway linking Risaralda and Choco departments. The landslide occurred early Dec. 4 following heavy rainfall. A public transport bus was trapped in the landslide, and as of early Dec. 6, the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) has reported that at least 34 people have died, including eight minors, and nine other people have been rescued. The death toll is expected to rise as responders have stated that finding survivors is now unlikely. Transport disruptions along the route are likely to be ongoing for some time as response operations continue. The poor condition of the highway is hampering rescue efforts and the retrieval of the victims. Further heavy rainfall is hampering recovery efforts and could trigger additional landslides in the area. Authorities have announced that they are planning to declare a nationwide maximum alert to prepare for weather-related disasters amid the rainy season that is likely to persist for several more months.

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. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region.

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)