Colombia has declared a state of emergency following devastating floods that have killed 18 people and displaced thousands in the northern regions of the country.
Authorities reported that homes were submerged after a dam and several rivers overflowed in Córdoba, one of the worst-hit departments, affecting more than 150,000 residents. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
The floods have destroyed over 4,300 homes and inundated large areas used for grazing and agriculture, according to government reports. The country’s cattle ranchers’ association confirmed that at least 1,200 cattle have perished.
Earlier reports from Colombia’s disaster relief agency had put the death toll at 22 nationwide on Monday, but the figure was later revised to 18.
In response to the crisis, President Gustavo Petro issued an emergency decree on Wednesday, granting the government special powers for 30 days to tackle the situation. The measures include the allocation of resources to affected regions without requiring congressional approval.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation as heavy rains persist across northern Colombia, raising concerns about further flooding, destruction, and displacement of communities.