The second rainy season of 2023 has begun in Antioquia, Colombia, and is expected to be influenced by the El Niño weather phenomenon, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Despite the occurrence of rains, the risk of fire and water shortages, hallmark impacts of El Niño, persist. The Departmental Administrative Department of Risk Management of Disasters of Antioquia (Dagran) has been strengthening the emergency response capabilities of municipal disaster risk management councils and has deployed tanker trucks with a 7,000-litre capacity to regions like Urabá, Nordeste, and Suroeste to assist with firefighting and potable water supply if needed.
Dagran director, Jaime Enrique Gómez Zapata, emphasizes that while the rainy season can mitigate some effects of El Niño, vigilance must be maintained, particularly as these rains offset fire events and supply shortages. Recommendations for the populace include securing roofing and loose objects, conservation of water, avoiding making fires, ensuring drainage systems are not blocked to prevent flooding, and maintaining vigilance around river levels and potential landslide areas.