Colombia has declared a state of emergency following devastating floods in the country’s northern cattle region that have killed at least 18 people and displaced thousands of residents.
Authorities said surging waters from an overflowing dam and swollen rivers submerged communities in Córdoba, one of the worst-affected departments, leaving more than 150,000 people impacted.
The flooding has destroyed over 4,300 homes and submerged extensive farmland and grazing areas. Colombia’s cattle ranchers’ association reported that no fewer than 1,200 cattle were lost in the disaster.
Initial figures from the national disaster relief agency had put the death toll at 22, but the number was later revised downward to 18.
President Gustavo Petro signed the emergency decree on Wednesday, granting the federal government special powers for 30 days to respond swiftly. Under the order, funds and resources can be deployed to affected regions without seeking approval from Congress.
Authorities remain on high alert as heavy rainfall continues across northern Colombia, heightening fears of further flooding and additional displacement.
