Ideam issues forecast on possible cyclone in the Caribbean

After the passage of Hurricane Iota through Providencia, Santa Catalina and San Andrés, the Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (for its acronym, idea) issued an early warning related to the probable arrival of cyclones in the next few days to the Colombian Caribbean.

According to communiqué # 138, of November 16, 2020, the analysis and forecast established with the National Hurricane Center NHC) there’s a 40% chance of cyclonic formation in Caribbean waters that would affect continental territory and islands.

“The consolidation of a low pressure associated with the entry of a new tropical wave is expected which, given the favorable atmospheric conditions, could develop into a tropical depression”, affirms the idea in its communication, so that “… at the moment there is a low probability of formation during the next 48 hours but for the next five days the possibility of cyclonic formation will increase up to 40%”.

The arrival of cyclones to the Colombian Caribbean territories is characterized by an increase in rainfall that would affect infrastructure and put human life at risk due to the concurrence of floods in dangerous lands or with the incidence of landslides. It does not mean the formation of a hurricane.

The entity makes a preventive call for local and departmental authorities to take advantage of the emergency recommendations issued in the last hours for Providencia, San Andrés and Santa Catalina, affected by the passage of Iota in the last 24 hours.

Therefore, the recommendations to follow are the following:

-Be attentive during the next few days to the communications and information issued by Ideam and the other local and municipal emergency authorities.

-Monitor the state of the local aqueducts and carry out preventive maintenance.

-Have on hand a briefcase with a copy of the identity documents of each of the members of the family nucleus, spare clothing, canned food, water, whistle, a radio with batteries and a flashlight.

-Protect yourself from the rain with an umbrella or raincoat and go out warm to avoid colds.

-Know and review emergency plans, evacuation routes and meeting points.

-Download the applications on your cell phone I Report and My Forecast, and be an active part of the risk management processes.

-Do not dump garbage or debris in streams, rivers and streets of urban centers.

-To the municipal and departmental risk management councils consider and monitor possible risks associated with increased swell and wind, reduced visibility for navigation in the area and maritime, heavy rains and electrical storms.

For small boat operators, tourists and fishermen, they are advised to closely follow the daily evolution of the meteorological and marine conditions. In the same way, it is important that they comply with the recommendations issued by the Port Authority in Cartagena and Santa Marta.

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