El Salvador: Rainy season forecast to begin in May

Event

The Salvadoran Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has reported that normal levels of rainfall are forecast during the first few months of the upcoming rainy season. Officials anticipate the rainy season will begin between May 5-15 in western areas of the country, between May 10-20 in the center of the country, and between May 20-31 in eastern areas of the country. Normal levels of rainfall are expected through July. Overall, officials forecast a national rainfall average of about 83 cm (32 in) during this period. During the rainy season, which typically runs until October, there is an increased risk of flooding, along with landslides in hilly or mountainous areas.

Context

The rainy season in El Salvador generally coincides with the Atlantic and Pacific hurricane seasons (mid-May to November). While the country is relatively rarely hit directly by hurricanes or tropical storms, their remnants often bring potentially hazardous torrential rains. The US-based National Hurricane Center closely tracks all cyclonic activity in Central America.

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to follow local weather forecasts. 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.