Brazil, Uruguay: Adverse weather forecast across parts of southeastern Brazil, and northern Uruguay early July 15

Event

Thunderstorms accompanied by intense downpours, strong wind gusts, and possible hail storms are forecast across parts of southeastern Brazil and northern Uruguay early July 15.

Brazil's National Institue of Meteorology (INMET) has issued an orange storm warning (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across parts of south-central, southeastern, and east-central Rio Grande do Sul State through early July 15. Rainfall totals of 3-6 cm (1.1-2.4 inches) per hour or 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) are expected in the orange warning area, as well as winds of 60-100 kph (37-62 mph) and possible hail storms. Yellow storm warnings have been issued for parts of southwestern, central, and northeastern Rio Grande do Sul and southeastern Santa Catarina states.

Uruguay's Institute of Meteorology (Inumet) has issued an orange strong storms and heavy rainfall warning (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across much of northwestern and north-central Uruguay early July 15. A yellow strong storms and heavy rainfall warning has been issued for areas of western, central, and northeastern Uruguay surrounding the orange warning area.

Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
The storms could produce rounds of heavy precipitation, strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity in the affected area. Sustained heavy 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 across parts of the impacted 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 weather updates and related advisories. 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.

Resources

Brazil National Institute of Meteorology (INMET)
Uruguay Institute of Meteorology (Inumet)