Bolivia: Adverse weather forecast across northern and central Bolivia through at least Dec. 3

Event

Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are forecast across central and northern parts of Bolivia through at least Dec. 3. As of Nov. 30, the National Meteorological and Hydrological Service (SENAMHI) has issued orange-level weather warnings (the second-highest on a four-tier scale) for heavy rain and thunderstorms across most of Beni Department and northern parts of La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba departments. As a result of the heavy rainfall, SENAMHI has also issued orange-level flood warnings for the Mamoré and Beni River Basins in Beni, La Paz, and Cochabamba departments. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming days.

Reports indicate in Cochabamba Department flooding is occurring in Cercado Province and Cercado, Cliza, Colcapirhua, Tiquipaya, and Toco municipalities as of Nov. 30. Dozens of homes have been inundated in these areas and road clearance operations are ongoing.

Hazardous Conditions
Should sustained heavy rainfall occur, it could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of 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. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Severe weather could also trigger intermittent flight delays and cancellations at regional airports, though these are unlikely to be severe or prolonged. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas.

Advice

Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

National Meteorological and Hydrological Service (SENAMHI) (Spanish)