Ecuador: Adverse weather forecast across western and southern regions through at least March 6

Event

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across parts of western and southern Ecuador through at least March 6. The heaviest rainfall in coastal regions is forecast March 4, in the Interndean Valleys March 4-5, and in the Amazon region on the eastern side of the Andes March 5-6. The showers and thunderstorms could trigger flash flooding and landslides in affected regions and will likely be accompanied by fog coming in off the Pacific coast, which will reduce visibility in affected areas.

The National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (INAMHI) has issued a warning for persistent rainfall and thunderstorms across parts of the coastal, highlands, and Amazon regions. Orange weather warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) are in place for much of Esmeraldas, northern and central Manabi, western and central Carchi, much of Imbabura, much of Pichincha, all of Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas, western Cotopaxi, all of Los Rios, northern Guayas, much of Bolivar, far southwestern Cimborazo, northwestern Canar, western Azuay, eastern El Oro, far northern and far southeastern Loja, far southeastern Morona Santiago, and eastern Zamora Chinchipe. Yellow warnings are in place across the rest of the affected area. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming days.

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)