11 Oct 2018 | 06:04 PM UTC
Central America: More rain forecast in coming days following deadly flooding /update 1
New round of tropical systems expected to cause more flooding and landslides in waterlogged Central America as of October 11
Event
A new tropical system is expected in Central America beginning Thursday, October 11, raising concerns for additional flooding and landslides. Previously, heavy rains, severe flooding, and landslides killed at least 13 people between October 4 and October 8. On October 11, the Honduran government issued a red weather alert for the municipalities of Alianza (Valle) and Marcovia (Choluteca), a yellow weather alert for the departments of Valle, Francisco Morazán, and green weather alerts for the departments of El Paraíso, Intibucà, Lempira, and Ocotepeque.
In Costa Rica, the National Emergency Commission (CNE) on October 10 announced a red alert for the districts of Cóbano, Lepanto and Paquera, as well as yellow alerts for the cantons of La Cruz, Santa Cruz, Nicoya, and Nandayure, and the districts of Barranca, El Roble, and Pitahaya. Rains of up to 3 cm (1.1 in) are expected in portions of Costa Rica.
The Nicaraguan government has cautioned the next round of tropical systems will cause more disruptions. Authorities evacuated over 3000 people as of October 9, although thousands more are still in zones susceptible to flooding.
In El Salvador, the potential for flash flooding is high as storms over the previous week have led to high-water levels in waterways, notably in mountainous urban centers.
Although, Guatemalan authorities have not published a weather alert for the upcoming storm system in the region, water levels in the Río Cenizas, Río La Pasión, and Lago Petén Itzá have passed flood stage as of October 11.
Context
Torrential rain is common in Central America during the Atlantic and Pacific hurricane seasons, which run through November.
Advice
Individuals in affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions prior to setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities. Remember that walking or driving through floodwaters can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.
