Colombia's Minister of Environment Irene Vélez said the government should activate prevention plans to prepare for the possible arrival of El Niño [1].
The weather phenomenon threatens the nation's stability because it can reduce river flows and disrupt food production. These shifts create risks for the agricultural sector and may lead to increased consumer prices [3, 5].
Officials are particularly concerned about the energy grid. Approximately 70% of Colombia's electrical matrix relies on hydroelectric power [4]. A significant drop in water levels could jeopardize the country's ability to maintain a steady power supply.
The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) has already issued guidelines to manage these risks. This was formalized in Circular 028, issued on April 16, 2026 [2].
There is some variation in the projected timing of the event. Some reports indicate the phenomenon will arrive in the second half of 2026 [2, 3]. Other data suggests the most decisive months for the onset of the event will occur between April and June [2, 3].
Vélez said the government must prioritize these preventative measures to mitigate the impact on the population. The focus remains on ensuring that water resources are managed efficiently before the critical window of the weather shift begins [1].
“Approximately 70% of Colombia's electrical matrix relies on hydroelectric power.”
The potential arrival of El Niño highlights Colombia's systemic vulnerability to climate volatility due to its heavy reliance on hydropower. Because a vast majority of the energy grid depends on consistent rainfall, any prolonged drought creates a cascading effect, threatening not only electricity availability but also food security and economic inflation.
