Iran: Response operations ongoing due to severe flooding in southern provinces Jan. 19

Event

Authorities continue to respond to severe flooding in southern Iran as of Jan. 19. Heavy rainfall with snow in mountainous regions has been ongoing across much of southern Iran over the past week and comes after previous severe flooding struck the area Jan. 1-5. The areas worst affected by the floods are Sistan and Baluchistan, Hormozgan, Kerman, Fars, Bushehr, and Khuzestan provinces. Although weather conditions are forecast to improve in southern Iran over the coming days, lingering disruptions are expected to impact the region over the near term.

Flooding has caused casualties and damage across the region, with roads cut off, bridges washed away, and many homes left without power. Up to 15 cm (6 inches) of snowfall has accumulated in some higher areas, blocking off mountain passes. Local authorities reported Jan. 19 that four people had been killed in flooding in Kerman and Hormozgan provinces. Dozens of villages have been evacuated, and hundreds of other villages are cut off due to impassable roads. Villages in Minab County in Hormozgan Province were evacuated due to the Esteghlal Dam overflowing. Flooding in early January affected over 80,000 people in southern Iran and caused 20 fatalities in Sistan and Baluchistan, Fars, and Kerman provinces.

Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks and over ground already saturated by previous rainfall. 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

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.

Due to the arid nature of the region and poor stormwater management in some urban areas, even minor rainfall accumulations could quickly result in episodes of flash flooding. Flooding is possible in streams and wadis (dry riverbeds). Significant rainfall may be preceded by moderate winds and dust storms, though some areas - particularly desert areas - may experience high levels of dust without rain.

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 and 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.