NewsThe decision was made based on the most recent report from the Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies. Reports from residents of Santa Marta show the impact the rains had on the streets. Photo: X @Adnilselarom24.10.2026 15:53 Updated: 24.10.2026 15:59
The heavy rains recorded since midday this Saturday, October 24, caused flooding in several sectors of Santa Marta and led the District Mayor's Office to declare a red alert due to the risk of flash floods in the Piedras and Manzanares rivers. The decision was made based on the most recent report from the Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (Ideam), which warned of the probability of sudden increases in the levels of several rivers and streams that flow into the Caribbean Sea. This Saturday, the Santa Marta mayor's office issued the alert. Photo:ScreenshotFlooding affects roads and sectors of Santa MartaAmong the affected points are the tourist corridor on the road to Minca and the entrance to the Curinca neighborhood, where water accumulations hinder mobility. This Saturday, the Santa Marta mayor's office issued the alert. Photo:ScreenshotStranded vehicles and flooded streets were also reported. Images shared on social media show sectors where the water covers a large part of the road and reaches a considerable height around the vehicles. The situation could worsen if the rainfall persists and the flow of nearby streams increases. Red alert for flooding, issued by the Santa Marta Mayor's Office. Photo:Santa Marta Mayor's OfficeWhich areas are under watch for possible flash floods?In its hydrometeorological conditions bulletin, Ideam indicated that there is a probability of flash floods in the Piedras, Gaira and Manzanares rivers, as well as in the Tigrera stream. The agency asked for special attention in Santa Marta, the districts of Minca and Guachaca, and the municipality of Ciénaga, Magdalena. The warning also includes the Córdoba and Toribio rivers, along with their tributaries in Ciénaga; the Guachaca, Mendiguaca and Buritaca rivers, in addition to the Valencia stream. A yellow alert was reported for the Don Diego river. Real-time Ideam satellite image. Photo:IdeamIdeam also recommended paying attention to the Ancho river basin and the Palomino river, whose flows could affect the municipality of Dibulla, La Guajira, and rural areas of eastern Santa Marta. Recommendations for the rainsGiven the risk of flooding and sudden increases in water flow, it is recommended to avoid approaching rivers, streams and flooded areas, and not to attempt to cross roads covered by water. Citizens should follow reports from the authorities and heed the instructions of emergency agencies. The authorities have also drawn attention to the improper disposal of waste, which can clog grates and drains and worsen flooding. A subsequent assessment of the emergencies and damage recorded during the day is expected to be released. Gabriel GutiérrezLatest News from EL TIEMPO Follow all the news from Colombia on Facebook and Twitter, or in our weekly newsletter.
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