Bolivia: Heavy rain alerts for the southeast November 6-7

Event

The Bolivian weather service SENAMHI (Servicio Nacional de Meteorología e Hidrología) has issued orange alerts for thunderstorms and heavy rain set to hit the southeast of the country between the afternoon of Tuesday, November 6, and the morning of Wednesday, November 7 (local time). Up to 7 cm (3 in) of rainfall is forecast for the following provinces: Gran Chaco (Tarija department), Luis Calvo (Chuquisaca department), and Cordillera (Santa Cruz department). Flooding (notably along rivers) and landslides (in hilly areas) are possible.

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.