Colombia Suspends Government Work Amid Severe Drought, Faces Potential Energy Rationing

Colombia has suspended government work for a day to save water and energy as the country grapples with a severe drought that has depleted reservoir levels to 28.75%, nearing the critical level of 27%.

The El Niño weather phenomenon, coupled with record heat, has exacerbated the situation, prompting the government to take urgent measures to conserve resources and avoid potential nationwide energy rationing if rains don't arrive soon.

The main reservoirs serving the capital city of Bogota have plummeted to a mere 15.3% of their total capacity, highlighting the severity of the crisis. Across the nation, average reservoir levels have fallen below 29% of total capacity, just above the critical threshold that could trigger widespread power outages. Colombian President Gustavo Petro has called upon Bogota residents to temporarily leave the city on weekends to ease the strain on water resources and has advocated for a 'civic day' on Friday to encourage electricity conservation.

Why this matters: The drought in Colombia underscores the devastating impact of climate change on developing nations, as they struggle with diminished hydroelectric reservoirs and the consequences of the carbon footprint of rich countries. The potential for nationwide energy rationing and power outages could have far-reaching economic and social implications for the country.

Environment Minister Susana Muhamad emphasized the unprecedented nature of the situation, stating, "The situation we are experiencing is unprecedented in the planet's history, and the country is still affected by high temperatures and atmospheric conditions." The government has announced 15 additional measures to address the crisis, including monitoring and control measures, increasing electricity generation, and creating incentives for energy savings.

The ministers of Mines and Energy and Environment have cautioned that the country is experiencing atypical weather patterns, with the rainy season not corresponding to normal patterns. While heavy rains are expected this weekend, the following two weeks of April are not expected to be above normal, potentially delaying the recovery of water flows. The government is working to avoid blackouts and water supply issues, including bringing an additional 272 MW of energy from the Termocentro Thermal Power Plant and increasing renewable generation by at least 100 MW.

President Petro acknowledged that the drought is evidence of a climate crisis, which cannot be solely blamed on El Niño. He warned that if it does not rain soon, the country will face increasingly serious problems. The government has launched a campaign called 'Turn off the tap and turn off the light' to raise awareness about the delicate situation. Engineering professor Jorge Escobar explained that the lack of rain in the mountains has diminished the water levels in the reservoirs, leading to a shortage that requires immediate action.

Key Takeaways

• Colombia has suspended government work to save water/energy amid severe drought-depleting reservoirs.
• Bogota's main reservoirs are at 15.3% capacity, the national average below 29% of the total, risking blackouts.
• Climate change impacts developing nations like Colombia, with the potential for economic/social disruption.
• Govt announces 15 measures, including increased power generation, to address the crisis.
• President warns of serious problems if rains don't arrive soon, calls for conservation efforts.