Colombia Reservoirs Slip as Wildfire Alerts Spread
Colombia reservoirs fell to about 79.99% in mid-August 2026, with 13 of 24 below 80%. Wildfire alerts now cover more than 340 municipalities. The post Colombia Reservoirs Slip as Wildfire Alerts Spread appeared first on The Rio Times .
Colombia's reservoirs are slipping as wildfire alerts spread across the country, raising concerns about the power supply situation. According to market operator XM, reservoir levels were at about 79.99% in mid-August 2026, a decline from earlier levels and below the recommended 80% threshold for withstanding prolonged dry periods.
The situation is exacerbated by water inflows running at only 66% of the historical average, leading to a widening gap between supply and demand for water. More than 340 municipalities were placed on red alert for wildfire risk, with over 660 under some level of alert. As hydropower dominates Colombia's energy mix, low reservoir levels can push electricity prices higher, posing a key concern for consumers and businesses.
While the current situation is not directly attributed to El Niño, the dry conditions are consistent with its effects, making monitoring reservoir levels crucial.
Brief written by urgent.news from The Rio Times's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
