IDEAM Officially Confirms the Presence of the El Niño Phenomenon in Colombia

The Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (IDEAM) officially announced on Thursday, October 8, the presence of the El Niño phenomenon in Colombia, classified as strong to very strong. The phenomenon, caused by the warming of the Pacific Ocean, is expected to persist through the first half of 2027, with a focus on reduced rainfall and increased temperatures.

Although seasonal rains continue in the Caribbean, Andean, and Pacific regions, the agency warns that the rainfall deficit may worsen starting December. Colombia is currently experiencing its second rainy season, which began in late September and peaks in October and November, particularly in the Andean and Caribbean areas. This period brings the risk of heavy rainfall, storms, and electrical activity, even when overall precipitation levels are below average for this time of year.

The National Government, in response to the alerts since the start of the year, implemented an interinstitutional response under Presidential Directive 03 and Law 1523 of 2012. The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management coordinates response efforts across regions, enhancing forest fire monitoring via satellite tools. The Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development focuses on protecting strategic ecosystems, water sources, and vulnerable areas, while the Ministry of Mines and Energy implements an emergency plan to secure energy supplies through increased thermal power generation, backup fuel, and efficiency measures.

The government's main goal is to anticipate risks, protect lives, ensure water and energy availability, and bolster the State's response to the El Niño effects.