Iraq: Authorities warn of possible flash flooding due to heavy rainfall in Erbil Governorate through Dec. 23 /update 1

Event

Authorities have warned of possible heavy rain and flash flooding in Erbil Governorate through at least Dec. 23. Heavy rainfall overnight Dec. 16-17 caused flash flooding in Erbil Governorate and led to at least 12 fatalities. Daratu Sub-District was the worst affected. More than 500 houses were damaged by the flooding.

As of Dec. 21, authorities have evacuated 12 families from Daratu Sub-District. Transportation is also available for voluntary evacuations. Residents are advised to be vigilant for additional flooding and to sleep on the top floor of two-story houses.

Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible 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 additional mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services may occur where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the regions. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Additionally, 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. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

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. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides, as well as mountainous regions where avalanches pose a threat. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming days. Review contingency plans and be prepared to move quickly to shelters if evacuation orders are issued. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.