Deadly Torrential Rains and Landslides Devastate Colombia

In early February 2026, Colombia experienced an unprecedented spell of torrential rain that resulted in at least 22 fatalities and displaced thousands of families across multiple departments, including Nariño, Antioquia, Cauca, Cordoba, and Sucre. The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) reported that the extreme weather was triggered by a rare cold front moving south from the northern Caribbean, which caused rainfall levels to soar 64% above historical averages. This unusual weather pattern has led to widespread flooding and landslides, particularly affecting the Caribbean coast and the Andean regions.

The WatchersColombia’s Heavy Rains Leave at Least 13 Dead and Tens of Thousands StrugglingThe Straits Times

The floods have severely impacted local communities, with over 9,000 homes reported affected and more than 27,000 families displaced. Residents in areas like Monteria and Lorica have resorted to using motorboats and makeshift rafts to salvage belongings from submerged homes. The situation has been described as critical, with significant losses in livestock, as over 5,500 animals have perished due to drowning. Schools have been repurposed as shelters for displaced families, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.

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Carlos Carrillo, director of UNGRD, emphasized the complexity of the emergency, stating, “We are facing a complex emergency,” while outlining ongoing rescue operations and the distribution of humanitarian aid. The Colombian Red Cross and international organizations have mobilized to provide food, water, and hygiene supplies to affected areas. However, ongoing rainfall and damaged infrastructure have hindered aid delivery, particularly in remote coastal and mountainous regions.

Colombia’s Heavy Rains Leave at Least 13 Dead and Tens of Thousands Struggling

Critics have raised concerns regarding the long-term implications of climate change on Colombia's weather patterns. Environmental specialists warn that deforestation and informal construction on unstable slopes exacerbate the vulnerability of communities to landslides and flooding. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs noted that the current disaster underscores the increasing frequency of extreme weather events in Colombia, which may be linked to broader climate change trends.

The Watchers

While initial reports indicated at least 13 fatalities, subsequent updates from various sources have confirmed that the death toll has risen to 22, with the majority of deaths occurring in Nariño due to a massive landslide triggered by a rain-swollen stream. The discrepancies in casualty figures highlight the challenges faced by emergency services in assessing the full impact of the disaster.

Colombia’s Heavy Rains Leave at Least 13 Dead and Tens of Thousands Struggling

Authorities have warned that heavy rains may continue in the coming days, particularly along the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Residents in flood-prone areas have been urged to remain vigilant and heed evacuation orders. As recovery efforts continue, the focus remains on restoring access to essential services and providing support to those affected by this devastating weather event.

Colombia’s Heavy Rains Leave at Least 13 Dead and Tens of Thousands Struggling

• “We’ve lost everything, all our belongings” — Enid Gomez, Resident of Monteria

The Straits Times

• “Many animals were lost, as they ended up drowning,” — Edwin Orozco, Resident of Lorica

The Straits Times

• “The priority is to save lives, provide shelter, and restore access to essential services.” — Carlos Carrillo, UNGRD Director

Colombia’s Heavy Rains Leave at Least 13 Dead and Tens of Thousands Struggling