The rainfall recorded in 2022 “is the worst in the last 40 years,” Petro told reporters in Bogota, noting that the rains had killed 266 people and affected at least 800 communities.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro today declared a state of natural “disaster” in the country due to the impact of this year’s rains, which have killed dozens of people and caused severe food shortages.
The rainfall recorded in 2022 “is the worst in the last 40 years,” Petro told reporters in Bogota, noting that the rains had killed 266 people and affected at least 800 communities.
“Harvest losses are significant and exacerbate the impact on the price of food items,” whose increase is greater due to inflation and the devaluation of the hryvnia against the US dollar.
The declaration of a natural “disaster” would allow each affected family to receive $100 a month to cover their needs, half of a minimum wage.
Farmers will be able to receive a subsidy covering 100% of the cost of fertilizers.
“Committees” will also be formed to distribute food to the areas most affected by the rains.
The government explains that this year’s record rainfall is due to climate change and the La Niña phenomenon caused by an abnormally low temperature in the Pacific Ocean.
Colombia recorded annual inflation of 11.4% in September, the highest in 23 years. Food prices were the ones that rose the most.
RES-EMP
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