Ecuador: Adverse weather forecast across central and eastern regions through at least Dec. 7

Event

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across central and eastern regions of Ecuador through at least Dec. 7. The National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (INAMHI) has issued a warning for persistent rainfall and thunderstorms across Sierra and Amazonas regions throughout Dec. 6. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming days.

Precipitation amounts of 1.5-3 cm (0.5-1 inches) of rainfall are forecast in Sierra Region and 3-5 cm (1-2 inches) in Amazonas Region. INAMHI has warned that the heavy rainfall could lead to some homes, businesses, and roads becoming inundated by floodwater; landslides are possible in elevated areas on unstable slopes. Fog is also forecast in both areas, and low temperatures are forecast in Sierra Region.

Flooding was reported in Amaguana, around 50 km (31 miles) south of Quito, in Pichincha Province Dec. 5. Heavy rains caused the San Pedro River to overflow and reports indicate several roads and homes have been inundated by floodwater. Emergency services operations in response to the flooding are ongoing.

Hazardous Conditions
The storms will be capable of producing heavy downpours and damaging winds across affected areas. 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. 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

Ecuadorian National Institute of Meteolrogy and Hydrology (INAMHI) (Spanish)