Intense Rains Keep Santander on Red Alert and Cauca Under Surveillance, According to Ideam
The Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology, and Environmental Studies (Ideam) issued an alert warning that the precipitation recorded in recent hours has generated 'hydrological alerts and risk conditions in several basins of the national territory'.
TL;DR
- Ideam has issued hydrological alerts and warned of risk conditions in several national basins due to recent rainfall.
- The most intense rains have been concentrated in the Andean and Pacific regions, affecting departments such as Antioquia, Bolívar, Boyacá, Cundinamarca, Valle del Cauca, Cauca, Nariño, Meta, Vichada, and Guainía.
- Santander is on red alert for the Sogamoso River basin due to the probability of sudden increases in water levels.
- Municipalities in Santander at high risk include Piedecuesta, Los Santos, Zapatoca, Barrancabermeja, Sabana de Torres, San Vicente de Chucurí, Betulia, and Girón.
- Sudden increases were reported in several tributaries in the department of Cauca during the night of March 10 and early morning of March 11.
- Red alerts are currently in place for the upper basins of the Cauca and Patía rivers.
- Bogotá is experiencing persistent light to moderate rains, with more expected, and residents are advised to exercise caution during travel.
- Ideam recommends following the guidance of risk management agencies, staying away from rivers and streams with high levels, and being aware of sudden changes in water flow.
- High heat indices are expected in the Amazon and Caribbean regions, with recommendations for constant hydration.
- Ideam will continue permanent monitoring and issue updates to aid authorities in decision-making and risk prevention.