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The Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (Ideam) has issued a discouraging prediction for the La Niña phenomenon, which is expected to impact Colombia with intense rains in the coming weeks. Although the phenomenon was expected to begin in the months of July or August, the climatic event could finally reach Colombia this month of November, with a probability of 60%.
The regions most affected by La Niña
The La Niña phenomenon will bring above-normal rainfall, especially affecting the Caribbean, Andean and Pacific regions. According to the forecast, the coffee region and the Pacific zone will be the areas most exposed to intense downpours. It is estimated that Caldas, Quindío, Risaralda, Cauca, Chocó, Nariño and Valle del Cauca will experience the highest volume of precipitation, which increases the risk of natural disasters such as landslides and river flooding.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has recommended that national and local authorities strengthen contingency plans and that communities be prepared for the possible occurrence of emergencies. In addition, measures must be taken to conserve water resources in those areas where rainfall is scarcer.
Duration and possible consequences
The most recent Ideam forecast also reveals that, although the effects of La Niña were expected to last until March 2025, it is estimated that this phenomenon could end in February 2025, which would make it shorter than initially anticipated. However, its impact on rainfall will be significant, especially in a critical period, since it would coincide with the dry season that traditionally begins in December and lasts until March.
Impact on Bogotá and other areas
Regarding the country’s capital, Bogotá, Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán has warned about the possible reduction in rainfall after December, which could aggravate the situation of water reservoirs and lead to the implementation of savings and rationing measures. Susana Muhamad, Minister of the Environment, also warned that the additional rains provided by La Niña will not be enough to reverse the serious drought situation faced by several regions of the country.
With the anticipated rains and the effects of the phenomenon, authorities in Colombia must be alert and prepare communities for the growing risk of natural disasters. In addition, productive activities, such as livestock and agriculture, must be adapted to mitigate the negative impacts of this climate phenomenon.
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The post La Niña will arrive in Colombia with above-normal rains, impacting the Coffee Axis and the Pacific region appeared first on Minuto30.
2024-11-09 21:52:00
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**Interview with Dr. Mariana Guevara, Climatologist at the Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (Ideam)**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Guevara. We’ve recently heard that Colombia is transitioning from the dry conditions of El Niño to the wetter pattern of La Niña. Can you explain what this means for the country?
**Dr. Guevara:** Thank you for having me. The transition to La Niña signifies a significant shift in our climate, characterized by increased rainfall across many regions in Colombia. This change is expected to bring above-normal precipitation, which can have both positive and negative impacts on different sectors, especially agriculture and infrastructure.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of agriculture, how will La Niña specifically affect coffee growing regions and the Pacific area?
**Dr. Guevara:** The coffee-growing regions—particularly Caldas, Quindío, and Risaralda—are likely to experience intense rainfall. While coffee plants benefit from moisture, excessive rain can lead to waterlogging, which affects yields. For the Pacific region, heavy rains increase the risk of landslides and flooding, posing threats to both communities and local ecosystems.
**Interviewer:** The recent predictions suggest a 60% chance of La Niña starting this month. How should communities prepare for the impending heavy rains?
**Dr. Guevara:** It is crucial for communities to be proactive. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) recommends that local authorities bolster their contingency plans. Individuals should also prepare by securing their homes, being aware of evacuation routes, and staying informed about weather updates. Additionally, conserving water resources will be vital, as flooding can disrupt water supply and infrastructure.
**Interviewer:** Are there any long-term implications of this climatic shift that the public should be aware of?
**Dr. Guevara:** Certainly. The frequency of climatic phenomena like La Niña and El Niño can alter weather patterns significantly over time, affecting food security, water availability, and disaster preparedness. It’s essential for government bodies to invest in resilient infrastructure and for communities to work on sustainable practices to adapt to these ongoing changes.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Guevara. It seems that awareness and readiness are key in facing the challenges ahead.
**Dr. Guevara:** Absolutely. Thank you for shining a light on this important issue. Preparedness is everyone’s responsibility, and collaboration at all levels will be crucial as we navigate these climatic challenges together.
