12 Sep 2022 | 08:24 AM UTC
Brazil: Adverse weather forecast across parts of southeastern regions through at least Sept. 15
Severe weather forecast across parts of southeastern Brazil at least Sept. 15. Flooding, landslides, and disruptions possible.
Event
Severe weather, including thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and strong winds, is forecast across parts of southeastern Brazil through at least Sept. 15. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding and landslides, and strong wind gusts could cause property damage in affected areas. As of early Sept. 12, Brazil's National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet) has issued an orange storm warning (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across parts of southern and central Parana, northwestern Rio Grande do Sul, and much of Santa Catarina states. Rainfall amounts of 3-6 cm (1.1-2.4 inches) per hour or 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) per day and winds of 60-100 kph (37-62 mph) are possible in the orange warnings areas. Further adverse weather is forecast over the region during the coming days and officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts depending on the evolving weather conditions.
Hazardous Conditions
The storms could produce rounds of heavy precipitation, strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity across the affected area. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger further flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Additional 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 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 affected regions, though these are unlikely to be severe or prolonged. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the South Atlantic Coast if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. 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.
