What happened in Aburrá Valley

A massive industrial fire in Itagüí sent thick black smoke across the Medellín metro area after it broke out on April 27 in a bicycle warehouse tied to former Coltejer facilities. More than 40 fire units from six municipalities responded and crews had the blaze fully out by about 8 p.m. on April 28, after it burned for more than 17 hours.

Two warehouses were destroyed. Six nearby factories and residential complexes, including Oliva and Índigo, were evacuated as a precaution, but officials reported no human injuries. SIATA, the Aburrá Valley early warning system, later reported harmful conditions for sensitive groups in parts of the region.

Who felt the smoke most

The smoke posed the biggest risk to digital nomads, expats, travelers, children, older adults and anyone with asthma or other respiratory issues. Authorities warned people to stay away from the area and limit outdoor activity while the smoke spread.

Residents also reported “black rain,” soot-laden precipitation, in Medellín. By early May, air quality had improved to moderate levels, with an AQI around 55 and PM2.5 at 16 µg/m³, so the immediate alert has eased even though sensitive people may still want to keep an eye on conditions.

What to do now

Check SIATA’s live air-quality updates before heading out, especially if you plan to work or exercise outdoors in Medellín, Itagüí or nearby municipalities. If you’re sensitive to smoke, stay indoors when readings worsen and use a mask if you need to go out.

There are no active warnings now, but the fire and a second blaze in Itagüí on April 28 show how fast conditions can change. For broader planning, see our nomad news and read our full Colombia guide for the complete picture.