Introduction. Diverse studies at a taxonomical and molecular level suggest that Lutzomyia longipalpis, main vector of visceral leishmaniasis in Latin America, is a complex of species with wide distribution throughout the continent and adaptation to different habitats. Objective. To carry out entomological surveillance in the area of influence of the Hydroelectric Plant Miel I. Materials and methods. Adhesive traps were used in a transect covering an area of approximately 400km for the capture of insects, which were then identified using the taxonomical key of Young and Duncan. Results. This study reports the presence of Lutzomyia longipalpis in the municipalities of Norcasia at an altitude of 392masl and in Marquetalia at 1387masl. Conclusions. We suggest that the increase in the geographical and altitudinal distribution could be related to the existence of the "Lutzomyia longipalpis" species complex, or to environmental factors such as the rise in temperature due to global climate change which creates the establishment of Lu. longipalpis, generating a new epidemiological risk for new visceral leishmaniasis foci in the country. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.7705/biomedica.v33i2.762