Cali declares emergency as torrential rains trigger severe flooding, power outages, and rescues. Authorities warn of more storms fueled by La Niña

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Cali Wakes Up to Emergency as Torrential Rains Flood the City

This Monday, March 31, Cali awoke under relentless torrential rains that transformed the city into an emergency zone. The intense downpour—expected to continue throughout the day due to the La Niña weather phenomenon, per Colombia’s IDEAM institute—caught residents off guard, flooding streets and crippling mobility across multiple districts. Neighborhoods like La Nave, Siloé, and Santa Isabel were among the hardest hit, with reports of inundations disrupting daily life.

Urban Infrastructure Overwhelmed

The overflowing San Cristóbal and Isabel Pérez streams submerged major roads, triggering traffic gridlock and power outages. Malfunctioning traffic lights heightened accident risks, while emergency teams scrambled to respond—including rescuing two people trapped in their car near Chipichape.

Emergency Services Stretched Thin

The city’s Fire Department reported multiple critical incidents, such as the dramatic rescue at Avenue 6 and 36th Street. Local authorities deployed all available resources, with first responders working tirelessly to ensure citizen safety.

More Rain Ahead: Officials Urge Caution

With La Niña prolonging the storms, officials warned residents to avoid high-risk areas and take preventive measures. Known as the “Branch of Heaven,” Cali now faces one of its worst climate crises in years, testing community resilience and emergency preparedness.

Solidarity in Crisis

As recovery efforts continue, Cali’s residents are banding together. Authorities urge vigilance, emphasizing adherence to safety protocols to mitigate further risks.

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