Venezuela: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing north of Maracay, Aragua state, Oct. 17

Event

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across northern Maracay, Aragua State, as of Oct. 17. Heavy rainfall caused the Corozal and El Castano rivers near Henri Pittier National Park to overflow their banks, flooding main roads in parts of northern Maracay, including Urbanizacion El Castano, Camburito, and Las Delicias.

Authorities have asked residents to evacuate or move to higher ground or upper floors of their homes. Some areas are isolated due to flooded thoroughfares. Officials have not confirmed if there are casualties associated with the flooding.

Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around 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.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

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.