In the past 50 days, Colombia has recorded 438 forest fires, representing 10% of the total number registered over two years during the previous El Niño phenomenon. The country faces a growing crisis due to increased occurrences of wildfires driven by high temperatures linked to the ongoing climate event. According to data from the National Unit for Risk Management of Disasters (UNGRD), the figure highlights the severity of the current situation, with the number of fires already surpassing the average observed during similar weather conditions in earlier years. The surge in wildfires has prompted urgent action from authorities. During a meeting held on August 4, the National Committee for Disaster Management convened to assess the evolving scenario and coordinate responses. The session focused on evaluating upcoming weather patterns and strengthening collaboration among national disaster response entities. The meeting underscored the need for immediate preparedness ahead of potential escalations. Javier Pava, head of the UNGRD, emphasized the alarming scale of the crisis, noting that nearly 7,153 hectares of vegetation have been affected. He highlighted the dire situation in the department of Tolima, where “almost everything is on fire,” according to his statement. Pava also called upon the incoming government, led by Abelardo De La Espriella, to expedite funding for a national emergency declaration, given the heightened presence of El Niño. The impact extends beyond environmental concerns. As of now, 191 municipalities across 19 departments have been affected, with families displaced and injuries reported. The situation has placed immense pressure on emergency services, including firefighters, police, and military personnel, who work tirelessly to contain the blazes. In response to the escalating threat, authorities in the Tolima department have implemented strict measures aimed at reducing the risk of new fires. Traditional activities such as “paseos de olla”, a popular practice involving cooking over open flames in rivers, have been temporarily banned. Additionally, all types of campfires, even those for recreational purposes, are prohibited. These restrictions aim to minimize the chances of accidental ignition, particularly in areas where vegetation is highly susceptible to fire. The measures were introduced amid a sharp increase in wildfire incidents. Over the last week of July alone, more than 40 forest fires were reported across different municipalities in Tolima. By the first weekend of August, this number surged to 68 new emergencies, affecting 339 hectares of land. Among the active fires, 12 remained unresolved, requiring immediate attention from emergency responders. Erika Lozano, the secretary of Environment and Risk Management for Tolima, expressed concern over the capacity of local authorities to handle the simultaneous nature of these emergencies. She noted that the department’s ability to respond effectively could be compromised if the trend continues. Local officials have urged citizens to act as vigilant observers, reporting any signs of potential fires or individuals engaging in reckless burning practices. To further mitigate risks, the Tolima Environmental Corporation (Cortolima) has imposed additional restrictions related to water usage during the dry season. Activities such as open-air burning, filling swimming pools with surface or groundwater, and using tap water for garden irrigation or vehicle washing are limited. Priority will be given to human consumption, with calls for responsible water use to avoid exacerbating the environmental strain. Authorities have warned that non-compliance with these regulations may result in environmental penalties. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activity or early warning signs of fire to help prevent further damage. With the situation continuing to evolve, the focus remains on coordinated efforts to manage the crisis and protect both natural resources and communities.
★
Keep the news honest.
ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.
Become a Supporter
CO
