Ideam warned of a phenomenon known as a ‘black storm’ that will impact Colombia for at least 48 hours, with intense rains.
Colombia is preparing to face a complex meteorological scenario after the alert issued by the Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (Ideam) due to the arrival of a so-called ‘black storm’a phenomenon that will affect the country for an estimated period of 48 hours.
According to official reports and specialized analyses, this atmospheric system will bring with it high intensity rains, frequent electrical activity, strong gusts of wind and possible hail fallwhich has raised the alarms of risk management authorities and emergency agencies.
The warning was issued this Thursday January 8, 2026and points out that it is not an isolated storm, but rather a set of conditions atmospheric instability that could alter mobility, infrastructure and daily activities in large areas of the national territory.
What is the black storm?
The term ‘black storm’although it does not correspond to an official technical classification, describes a meteorological phenomenon characterized by the strong development of cumulonimbus storm cloudsof great density and extension, which significantly block sunlight, darkening the sky even during daylight hours.
This phenomenon originates from the combination of three main factors:
High humidity coming from the ocean basins and the Amazon.
Circulation of north and northeast windswhich push air masses into the interior of the country.
Thermal instabilitygenerated when heat accumulated on the surface rises rapidly and collides with cold air in the upper layers of the atmosphere.
The result are intense storms with persistent rains, electric shocks and strong winds.
Regions on alert for rain, wind and hail
According to the Ideamthe regions with the highest risk of heavy rains include Antioquia, Santander, Cesar, Bolívar, Magdalena, Sucre and Córdoba. Significant rainfall is also expected in Caldas, Risaralda, Tolima, Cundinamarca, Quindío, Chocó, Valle del Cauca, Cauca, Amazonas, north of Boyacá, Huila, Guainía and Vaupés.
In these areas there is the possibility of gales, intense winds and isolated episodes of hailin addition to a considerable increase in cloudiness and prolonged downpours.
In contrast, the Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina will present more stable conditions, with low probability of significant rain during this period.
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Recommendations against the effects of the ‘black storm’
Given the persistence of adverse weather conditions, the authorities called on the prevention and follow the official recommendations to reduce risks:
Consult permanently the bulletins of Ideam and local authorities.
Stay in safe places during heavy rain and thunderstorms.
Avoid outdoor activities as long as downpours and gales persist.
Secure roofs, windows and objects that can be blown away by the winds.
Keep drains, gutters and sewers clean to prevent flooding.
Do not cross flooded areasswollen rivers or streams.
Prepare an emergency kit with flashlight, radio, water, food and medicine.
Follow instructionspreventive closures or evacuations ordered by the authorities.
He Ideam reiterated that the preparation and timely attention to official statements They will be key to protecting the life, integrity of people and property during the passage of this meteorological phenomenon.
