11 Nov 2022 | 10:46 AM UTC
Argentina: Adverse weather forecast across central regions through at least Nov. 12
Thunderstorms forecast across central Argentina through at least Nov. 12. Transport, business, and utility disruptions possible.
Event
Thunderstorms are forecast across parts of central Argentina through at least Nov. 11. Storms may be accompanied by heavy downpours, strong wind gusts, and lightning. Rainfall accumulations of up to 6 cm (2.4 inches) are possible in parts of the affected area. Heavy rainfall could trigger flash and urban flooding, as well as landslides, and power outages are possible where strong winds and thunderstorm activity impact utility networks.
As of early Nov. 11, Argentina's National Meteorological Service (SMN) has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:
Orange thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Parts of western Cordoba and northeastern San Luis provinces.
Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Parts of western Buenos Aires, central, northern, and southern Cordoba, eastern La Pampa, southern La Roja, northeastern Mendoza, eastern San Juan, and much of San Luis provinces.
Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Parts of southwestern Buenos Aires and southeastern La Pampa provinces.
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. 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, as well as 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
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 also cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. The disruptive weather may cause delays and cancellations at airports across the affected area.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
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.
