28 Jun 2022 | 08:32 AM UTC
Chile: Adverse weather forecast in central and southern regions through at least June 29
Severe weather forecast in parts of central and southern Chile through June 29. Possible transport, business, and utility disruptuions.
Event
Thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, strong winds, and frost are forecast across parts of central and southern Chile through at least June 29. Daily rainfall amounts of 2-6 cm (0.8-2.4 inches) are expected in some central regions, with localized heavier downpours. The intense precipitation could trigger flooding and landslides in some affected areas, whilst snowfall is also possible in elevated areas. The National Office of Emergency of the Interior Ministry (ONEMI) has issued Preventative Early Warning alerts for meteorological events across parts of the affected area.
As of June 28, the Meteorological Directorate of Chile has issued the following weather warnings across the affected regions:
Orange rainfall warning (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Parts of La Araucania Region.
Orange thunderstorm warning: Parts of Biobio and Metropolitan regions.
Yellow rainfall warnings: Across Biobio and Nuble regions and parts of La Araucania and Los Rios regions.
Yellow strong wind warnings: Parts of Aysen, Biobio, La Araucania, Los Lagos, and Los Rios regions.
Yellow frost warning: Parts of Coquimbo Region.
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
The thunderstorms could produce rounds of heavy rainfall and strong winds in the affected areas. Sustained rainfall could trigger flash and areal flooding. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water and in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.
Transport
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. 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. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.
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. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
