Colombia forest fires affect 22,000 hectares and business operations

Recent dry seasons in Colombia have resulted in more than 20 simultaneous forest fires, affecting over 22,000 hectares of land. Data from the UNGRD Crisis Room and IDEAM indicate that the impact extends beyond vegetation loss, with Fedegán reporting that more than 1,000 productive properties have been affected.

Experts warn that these fires pose significant risks to business continuity, even for facilities not directly reached by flames. Factors such as smoke, reduced visibility, road closures, utility interruptions, and mobility restrictions can disrupt essential processes, workers, and supply chains. This is particularly critical for the energy, oil and gas, transport, and manufacturing sectors.

Carolina López Pérez of SACS Group noted that organizations must look beyond direct fire proximity and consider how the loss of energy, communications, or access to suppliers could trigger cascading emergencies. International analyses from the World Economic Forum and Swiss Re have highlighted a gap in corporate preparedness and insurance coverage regarding economic losses from such climate-related natural disasters.