Brazil: Adverse weather forecast across parts of northeastern and southern regions through at least Aug. 8

Event

Heavy rainfall is forecast across parts of northeastern and southern Brazil through at least Aug. 8. As of late Aug. 3, Brazil's National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet) has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:

• Red warnings for heavy rainfall: far northeastern Alagoas and far southeastern Pernambuco states. Over 6 cm (2 inches) of rain per hour or 10 cm (4 inches) of rain per day and winds of over 100 kph (62 mph) are forecast in these red warning areas.

• Orange warning for heavy rainfall: northeastern Alagoas, far southeastern Paraiba, far eastern Pernambuco, and southern Rio Grande do Sul states. Between 3-6 cm (1-2 inches) of rain per hour or 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) of rain per day and winds of 60-100 kph (37-62 mph) are forecast in these orange warning areas.

• Yellow warning for heavy rainfall: across the rest of the affected area.

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

Much of northeastern Brazil is likely still recovering from heavy rain and landslides late May. Heavy rainfall caused flooding and landslides that resulted in more than 120 fatalities and thousands of people displaced; Pernambuco State was the worst hit. Further heavy rainfall will likely hamper recovery efforts or exacerbate the situation in the region.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger further flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. In developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems, additional urban flooding is also possible. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides remain possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Power outages and disruptions to telecommunications services are likely 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 in 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 airports in the region, 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 track inundation. Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas.

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

National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet)