Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment Huila 2050: Preparing for Climate Change

This study analyzes the vulnerability to climate change of Huila Department in Colombia. It makes projections on future changes in rainfall and temperature and rates municipalities by the extent to which they are vulnerable, from medium to very high.

This department in southwestern Colombia is already experiencing higher temperatures, less rainfall and an increase in demand for water. It found that from 2011-2040, using this study as a baseline, there will be less rain in 70 percent of Huila, but more rain in the remainder of the department. Nearly all of the territory will see a temperature rise of between 1 and 2°C; small areas -- the municipalities of Aipe and Villavieja -- will see a rise of between 2 and 3°C.

These changes, added to the loss of vegetation and a drop in biodiversity, have caused considerable environmental impacts that have placed the Department on alert.

Nonetheless, the study found that the Huila has “great opportunities” for both adaptation and mitigation to climate change. There are extensive forests and high plateau in its high mountain ranges, and in the south, a network of protected areas. It notes that municipalities should examine plans for livestock, mining, oil and hydroelectric interests against ensuring long-term sustainability given projected climate impacts.

Find other country and regional climate risk management resources here.