Timor-Leste: Severe flooding impacting Dili and surrounds as of April 4

Event

Ground travel and commercial operation disruptions are likely in Dili and surrounding areas through early April following several days of flooding. As of April 4, various areas of Dili are reportedly underwater and the Comoro River has burst its banks in places. Flood-related incidents have killed at least nine people and damaged infrastructure. Multiple roads have been impacted, including Avenida de Portugal and the road connecting Dili to Aileu, located south of the capital. Power outages have also been reported since April 3. Officials have declared the city a "calamity zone." Further heavy rainfall is forecast for the area through early April.

Additional sustained heavy rainfall could trigger further flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also likely in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Further disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional roads. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports, including Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport (DIL).

Health
Although a secondary concern, the threat of disease outbreaks cannot be discounted in the coming days and weeks. Backflow from drains that has mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and waterborne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages. Exercise basic food and water safety precautions.