20 Nov 2018 | 09:10 PM UTC
Bolivia: Flood alert issued November 16-22 /update 4
Authorities warn of possible flooding in the Mamoré, Chapare, Rocha, and Pilcomayo basins and the High Basin of the Beni River through November 22
Event
The Bolivian weather service SENAMHI (Servicio Nacional de Meteorología e Hidrología) has issued an Orange level meteorological alert - the third highest warning level out of four - for parts of the departments of Cochabamba, southern Beni, Santa Cruz, La Paz, Chuquisaca, and Tarija through Thursday, November 22. According to SENAMHI, heavy rain may cause flooding in the abovementioned departments, particularly near river-adjacent areas. Localized traffic disruptions are possible if flooding does occur.
Context
Flooding is common in Bolivia during the rainy season (October to April) and can result in significant transportation disruptions, structural damage, and loss of life.
Advice
Individuals present in Bolivia are advised to monitor local weather
reports and adhere to any instructions 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.
