Uruguay: Flooding in northwest displaces over 6000 people as of June 13

Event

According to the National Emergency System (Sinae), over 6000 people have been displaced by flooding in the northwestern Salto, Paysandú, Artigas, and Rio Negro departments as of Tuesday, June 13. Sinae assured residents that those displaced by the flooding would receive food, shelter, and medical care. Meanwhile, the army, navy, and air force have been assisting with evacuations.

Sinae stated that in Salto, the most affected department, the Uruguay River levels could reach 15.3 m (50 ft) in the next three days and 15.9 m (52 ft) by June 19 if there is more rain.

Context

These ongoing floods were initiated on June 6 following heavy rain in the Salto department.

Uruguay suffers from regular flooding, which frequently results in significant material damages and displacement. In December 2015, flooding in the same region forced some 150,000 people in Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil from their homes.

Advice

Individuals present in affected departments are advised to monitor the situation, to avoid areas directly hit by flooding, and to adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.​