Colombia is facing a season of intense rainfall that has caused floods, river overflows, and flash floods in nearly 31 of the country’s 32 departments, as a result of atmospheric conditions associated with La Niña–like patterns. The most recent report from the Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology, and Environmental Studies (IDEAM) indicates that rainfall has extended from the Caribbean to the Amazon, affecting urban and rural communities during the weekend of Jan. 31 and Feb. 1, 2026.
What is the La Niña phenomenon?
The La Niña phenomenon occurs when sea surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific Ocean become cooler than usual, altering wind and rainfall patterns across much of the planet. In Colombia, La Niña is typically associated with above-normal rainfall, especially in the Caribbean, Andean, Pacific, and Amazon regions, increasing the risk of floods, landslides, and river surges.
According to IDEAM, although a new La Niña episode has not yet been officially declared, current weather conditions are similar and are responsible for the increase in precipitation.
Most affected regions and reported emergencies
Official reports indicate that 30 departments have recorded heavy rainfall, with emergency situations in several regions:
Caribbean Coast: Atlantico, Bolivar, Magdalena, La Guajira, Sucre, and San Andres are experiencing torrential rains. In cities such as Cartagena and Santa Marta, low-lying streets are flooded, while flash floods have affected roads and riverside homes.
Andean Region: Bogota, Antioquia, Santander, Norte de Santander, and Boyaca are facing intermittent rains and landslide risks in mountainous areas.
Pacific and Amazon regions: Departments such as Choco, Nariño, Caqueta, and Guaviare have exceeded usual rainfall records, impacting riverside communities.
One of the most critical situations is in Cordoba, where the overflow of the Sinu River and the spilling of the Urra reservoir have left more than 13,000 families affected. Municipalities such as Monteria, Lorica, and Ayapel have been placed on red alert, with several rural districts and villages flooded. Authorities have activated command posts and requested air support to evacuate trapped residents.
@chicanoticias #Córdoba ♬ sonido original – CHICA NOTICIAS
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Impact on the Caribbean Coast and emergency measures
In the department of Bolivar, urban flooding has affected neighborhoods in Cartagena, such as El Pozon and La Maria, while the municipalities of Magangue and Mompox have reported overflowing channels that have flooded homes. The risk of sudden river surges also threatens the Canal del Dique and nearby communities.
Authorities have activated emergency plans throughout the Caribbean region. In Cartagena, red flags have been raised on all beaches since Feb. 1 due to strong waves — between 3 and 4 meters tall — and winds of up to 55 km/h, associated with a cold front moving in from North America and the ‘mar de leva’ (storm surge) phenomenon.
The General Maritime Directorate (Dimar) and emergency agencies have prohibited entering the sea and suspended nautical activities to protect the population.
@canalcartagena 🚩 A pesar de la declaratoria de bandera roja en la ciudad, algunas embarcaciones continúan movilizándose en zonas marítimas. ⚠️ Las autoridades reiteran que el oleaje elevado y los fuertes vientos representan un riesgo, especialmente para embarcaciones menores.
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Recommendations and outlook
IDEAM warns that, although February is usually a drier month, this year, rainfall will remain above normal in several regions, particularly the Andean, Pacific, and Amazon areas. On the Caribbean Coast, precipitation is expected to gradually decrease, but episodes of heavy rain and persistent high waves remain an immediate risk.
Authorities have recommended that the population:
- Avoid maritime or recreational activities while the red flag is in place.
- Stay away from rivers and flooded areas.
- Follow official bulletins from IDEAM and local authorities.
- Prepare evacuation routes and remain alert to warnings and possible landslides.