Heavy and continuous rainfall has triggered severe flooding in the central region of Colombia, leaving more than a thousand families affected in and around the municipality of Facatativá, local authorities said.

The downpour, which began on March 18, caused rivers and streams—including the Río Botello—to overflow, inundating neighborhoods such as Los Manzanos and La Selva, located approximately 40 kilometers west of the capital Bogotá.

According to local reports, floodwaters reached levels exceeding one meter inside homes, forcing widespread evacuations as emergency teams rushed to the affected areas.

Cundinamarca Governor Jorge Emilio Rey confirmed that at least 14 emergency incidents have been recorded across the region. Firefighters, police units, and Red Cross teams were deployed throughout the day, carrying out rescue operations, pumping out floodwaters, and assisting affected residents.

More than a thousand people have been relocated to temporary shelters, where food and essential supplies are being distributed as authorities continue relief efforts.

Colombia’s meteorological institute IDEAM has warned that additional rainfall is expected in the coming days, raising concerns over further flooding and worsening conditions in already impacted areas.

While local officials have reported significant damage and displacement, international outlets such as Reuters and Associated Press typically report such events as part of broader weather-related disasters affecting the region, with a focus on rainfall intensity and humanitarian impact.

The flooding highlights the vulnerability of the region to extreme weather conditions, as emergency services remain on high alert amid forecasts of continued heavy rains. (ILKHA)