South America: Adverse weather forecast across parts of far north eastern Argentina, southeastern Brazil, and southeastern Paraguay early July 12

Event

Thunderstorms accompanied by intense downpours, strong wind gusts, and possible hail storms are forecast across parts of far northeastern Argentina, southeastern Brazil, and southeastern Paraguay early July 12.

Argentina's National Meteorological Service (SMN) has issued a yellow thunderstorm warning (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) across northern Misiones Province early July 12. Storms of varying intensity, some of which may be strong, are expected in the warning area. The storms may be accompanied by strong wind gusts, hail, and heavy downpours. Rainfall totals of 1.5-3 cm (0.6-1.1 inches) are expected in the area, with localized higher amounts.

Brazil's National Institue of Meteorology (INMET) has issued an orange storm warning (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across Parana, Rio Grande do Sul, and Santa Catarina states, as well as southeastern parts of Mato Grosso do Sul State, through early July 12. Rainfall totals of 3-6 cm (1.1-2.4 inches) per hour or 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) are expected in the warning area, as well as winds between 60-100 kph (37-62 mph) and possible hail storms.

Paraguay's Directorate of Meteorology and Hydrology has issued a weather warning for rains with strong thunderstorms, strong to very strong wind gusts, and the occasional fall of hail across northern and eastern parts of the Oriental Region during the early hours of July 12. The affected area includes parts of southeastern Concepcion, northeastern and eastern San Pedro, northern Alto Parana, and central and southern Canindeyu departments,

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

Argentina National Meteorological Service (SMN)
Brazil National Institute of Meteorology (INMET)
Paraguay Directorate of Meteorology and Hydrology