Colombia: Flooding and other weather-related disruptions ongoing in parts of Valle de Cauca Department as of March 28

Event

Flooding and other weather-related disruptions are ongoing across parts of the Valle del Cauca Department as of March 28. Heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, strong winds, and hail storms occurred across central parts of the department late March 27. The downpours and strong winds caused property damage to dozens of homes, downed trees, and power lines, making several roads impassable due to floodwaters across parts of the affected area. Affected municipalities include Alcala, Bugla, El Cerrito, Ginebra, Guacari, and parts of the provincial capital Cali. Roof collapses to buildings have been reported in Burga, Cali, and El Cerrito. Predominantly northern parts of Cali have been impacted by the storms, with flooded roads, fallen trees, and power outages reported. The heavy rainfall also triggered a landslide in a rural area outside of Cali, causing the displacement of around 15 families. No fatalities or injuries have been reported associated with the adverse weather as of early March 28. Showers and storms are forecast to continue across the region March 28-31, and further isolated thunderstorms are expected through at least April 4.

Hazardous Conditions
Further 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 heavy rain has saturated the soil.

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 with 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.