Bolivia: Adverse weather forecast across southern regions through at least Feb. 22

Event

Thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and possible flooding are forecast across Tarija and parts of Chuquisaca and Potosi departments in southern Bolivia through at least Feb. 22. 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 Tarija as well as parts of central and southwestern Chuquisaca and eastern Potosi departments. As a result of the heavy rainfall, SENAMHI has also issued orange-level warnings for rising water levels for several rivers across the three departments. Overflowing rivers could cause flooding in communities along these rivers. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming days.

Heavy rainfall in Entre Rios Municipality in O'Connor Province, Tarija Department, Feb. 21 triggered severe flooding, causing damage and casualties in nearby communities. As of Feb. 22, at least four fatalities have been reported, and ten others are missing. The floods across three communities have damaged several houses and other buildings, and a number of roads in the area have been made impassable by floodwaters.

Hazardous Conditions
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 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

National Meteorological and Hydrological Service (SENAMHI) (Spanish)