Colombia issues emergency after floods devastate northern region
Colombia has declared a state of emergency following deadly floods that have caused widespread destruction. Thousands of families have been displaced, and large areas of land used for cattle and agriculture are underwater. Authorities report that homes have been destroyed and livestock lost. President Gustavo Petro now has special powers to address the crisis.
What we know
- Colombia declared a state of emergency after floods killed 18 people and displaced thousands.
- In Cordoba, more than 150,000 residents have been affected, with over 4,300 homes destroyed.
- At least 1,200 cattle have died, according to the cattle ranchers’ association.
- The disaster relief agency initially reported 22 deaths nationwide but later revised the figure down.
- The emergency decree allows President Gustavo Petro to allocate resources and take special measures for 30 days without congressional approval.
