Story perspectives

Colombia's President Declares Emergency After Deadly Floods

2/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

On February 11, Gustavo Petro, President of Colombia, declared a state of emergency after floods killed 18 people and displaced thousands in the northern cattle belt.
The floods, caused by overflowing rivers and a dam, have affected over 150,000 residents, destroyed over 4,300 homes, and submerged agricultural land.
The emergency decree allows Petro to implement special measures for 30 days, enabling resource allocation to affected areas without congressional approval.

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Story summary

On February 11, Gustavo Petro, President of Colombia, declared a state of emergency after floods killed 18 people and displaced thousands in the northern cattle belt.
The floods, caused by overflowing rivers and a dam, have affected over 150,000 residents, destroyed over 4,300 homes, and submerged agricultural land.
The emergency decree allows Petro to implement special measures for 30 days, enabling resource allocation to affected areas without congressional approval.