An orange alert has been declared in eight municipalities in Córdoba due to the risk of flooding in the Urrá I reservoir

Heavy rains increased
Heavy rains have caused the reservoir level to rise rapidly, increasing risks to riverside communities in Seno. – General Credit Controller

The Autonomous Regional Corporation of the Seno and San Jorge Valleys (CVS) has declared an orange alert in the Seno River Basin, following the warning issued by the URRÁ SAESP regarding the possible overflow of the Urrá I reservoir due to heavy rains affecting the province of Córdoba.

This measure leads to the activation of prevention protocols in eight municipalities in the face of the critical increase in water levels and the flood risks that could be generated downstream.

You can now follow us Facebook And in our WhatsApp channel

According to the bulletin issued on November 29, 2025, The reservoir is witnessing a gradual increase in its level, and has already exceeded 130.00 meters above sea level, which is a key indicator for determining the risk of overflow. The heavy rains that persisted in the area generated inflows well above the discharge capacity of the turbine system, increasing hydraulic pressure and increasing the potential for flooding across the overflow reservoir spillway.

URRÁ also reported that by November 30, the four generating units will be operational.which means an increase in controlled discharges into the river, a necessary measure to regulate the reservoir level, but in turn represents an increase in the flow of the Sinu River in its middle and lower region.

Environmental authorities monitor behavior
Environmental authorities are monitoring the hydrological behavior in the face of increasing flows that may affect several municipalities in the province. – Credit Urra

The Government of Cordoba, through Information Circular No. 33, The orange alert has been officially activated for the municipalities of Tierralta, Valencia, Montería, Serite, San Pelayo, Cotura, Santa Cruz de Lorica and San Bernardo del Viento.as part of the institutional response to a potential overrun scenario.

This action orders municipal risk management boards to immediately activate municipal emergency response strategies, Strengthening chains of communication and reviewing specific protocols related to emergency situations due to sudden increases in river levels.

The daily hydrology report of November 29 reveals the behavior of the last few hours:

Time — Incoming flow (m³/s) — Turbine discharge (m³/s)

  • 01:00 AM — 1579.89 — 172.05
  • 06:00 AM – 1423.90 – 169.57
  • 11:00 AM – 854.63 – 169.50
  • 03:00 PM – 800.14 – 170.72
Risk management teams
Risk management teams are enhancing response protocols as controlled discharges from the hydropower plant continue. – Courtesy Aura.

These records show a continuous increase in incoming flowwell above the maximum discharge capacity, which is about 682 m3/s, bringing the reservoir closer to the critical threshold for eventual flooding. “This data shows a continuous increase in incoming flow, far exceeding the discharge capacity of the turbine,” CVS noted.

CVS called on municipal councils, relief agencies and community leaders to maintain strict and constant monitoring of Sinu River levels, especially in sectors identified as critical due to their history of flooding.

The entity recommended reviewing and updating municipal emergency plans. The early warning systems installed in the various municipalities of the basin are continuously monitored.Pre-established evacuation routes and safe points are integrated with the population.

He also insisted on the importance of keeping access roads and evacuation areas clear.Also avoid recreational or navigational activities on the river during this danger period, paying special attention to any change, no matter how slight, in the levels of the river or its tributaries.

The Foundation warned that heavy rains could also generate landslides, damage to homes and roads, damage to crops, disruption of basic services, and risks to public health, so prevention must be comprehensive and continuous.

CVS has confirmed its commitment as an environmental authority and technical arm of provincial and municipal risk management boards, Ensuring continued provision of technical supportInstitutional support and permanent monitoring of local authorities to make timely decisions during the current rainy season. The authority concluded: “We renew our commitment to providing technical support and supporting the necessary measures to confront the current rainy season.”