It is the first time in history that a Level 5 hurricane has reached Colombian shores. On the eve of November 17th, hurricane Iota menaced the Colombian archipelago conformed by San Andres, Providencia & Santa Catalina. As a consequence of its terrible visit throughout the week, a record of 98% affection to Providencia’s infrastructure was determined by experts in the area. Additionally, this catastrophe amplifies the worst aspects brought by the COVID-19 pandemic over local commerce and life conditions since limited resources are now impossible to reach, both monetary and essentials such as food.
Located in the Northern point of Colombia, this archipelago holds dear many Caribbean customs which contrast with the vast majority of the country. It is not only a national destination for any tourist desiring to escape from monotony, but a sensitive issue concerning foreign affairs as well. The three islands among their many other land extensions owned international spotlight when Nicaragua claimed the same territories as their own due to the proximity between the two. However, the Republic of Colombia managed to maintain the islands in return for handing over a considerable amount of naval space. This type of dispute has occurred many times in the past, not only between Colombia and Nicaragua but many other nations around the globe claiming occupied territories because of its proximity or fewer distance compared to the ‘owners’. For instance, Argentina tried to conquer the Falkland Islands, taking them away from the British Empire. Even though the distance between the South American country and the islands were relatively close, its sovereignty resulted in an armed conflict between then Prime Minister Thatcher/Queen Elizabeth II (Britain) and military dictator Videla (Argentina). Meanwhile, lots of controversies such as Chile v. Bolivia and more take place in the Netherlands where the International Court of Justice decides the faith of such diplomatic disputes.
Taking into account the context that follows the reputation of such distinguished land, hurricane Iota managed to run over an entire island (Providencia) while significantly damaging the main island of San Andres. On the other hand, the main bridge for tourists to cross from Providencia to St. Catalina was structurally damaged. As an immediate response, head of State Ivan Duque arrived in a matter of days to the devastated Caribbean islands in order to restore order and provide humanitarian assistance for those displaced. The president has recognized the magnitude of the emergency and urged the citizens of the same republic to donate as much as possible to build back a better archipelago. Besides the concerning physical damages on the island’s infrastructure, hundreds resulted injured after the devastating storm and only one casualty has been reported to date.
As for now, San Andres, Providencia & Santa Catalina rely on the government’s free will to accomplish its social duty with its people. However, they also depend on the vast cooperation from Colombians by donations and contributions whether it implies financial aid or in-person help. Moreover, local residents have claimed tourism must not be completely halted; the repercussion of such measures would result in gruesome consequences to their economy being tourism the most significant source of income in the entire archipelago.