Ecuador: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least April 11

Event

Adverse weather is forecast across much of Ecuador through at least April 11. Ecuador's National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (INAMHI) has issued a weather warning for rainfall and thunderstorms from 15:00 ECT April 7 through 22:00 April 11. The warning covers nearly all of mainland Ecuador, with the exception of some areas along the west coast, as well as the Galapagos Islands. The most intense rainfall is expected over northern interior parts of the coastal region, western parts of the Andean highlands region, and northern and southern parts of the Amazonian region. Up to 9 cm (3.5 inches) of rainfall per day is possible in some regions, and the heavy downpours could trigger flooding and landslides in affected areas.

Recent heavy rainfall has caused damage to water supply infrastructure in Portolevo Canton in El Oro Province, and the population has been without drinking water since April 3. Authorities are hoping to restore supply in the coming days. Around 170,000 people in three cantons of Manabi are also without water supply as of April 6 after heavy rainfall led to the rupturing of an aqueduct supplying water to the region. The mayor of Manta has declared an emergency due to the water supply situation in the area. Previous heavy rainfall in recent weeks has caused disruptions and casualties across many regions of Ecuador, including notably a landslide in Sayausi in Azuay Province March 27 which caused five fatalities.

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 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 mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and 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.

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

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Ecuador National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (INAMHI) (Spanish)
Ecuador National Risk and Emergency Management Service (SNGRE) (Twitter) (Spanish)