07 Nov 2022 | 02:27 PM UTC
Venezuela: Disruptions due to flooding and landslides ongoing across many parts of the country as of early Nov. 7
Disruptions due to flooding and landslides ongoing across parts of Venezuela as of early Nov. 7. Further adverse weather forecast.
Event
Disruptions due to flooding and landslides are ongoing across various parts of Venezuela as of early Nov. 7. Parts of Anzoategui State are amongst the worst-affected areas after heavy rainfall in the area since Nov. 3 triggered severe flooding and landslides. Authorities have reported seven fatalities due to the adverse weather in Guanta and Juan Antonio Sotillo municipalities. More than 200 homes have been damaged and around 260 people have been evacuated. Several roads and other public infrastructure has been damaged. Flooding has also been reported in the Coro, Punto Fijo, Cumarebo, and Zazarida Port areas of Falcon State following heavy rainfall Nov. 5 and over 130 families in Baralt municipality in Zulia State were affected by flooding following further heavy rainfall Nov. 6.
The National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (INAMEH) has warned of further rainfall of varying intensity and thunderstorms across much of the country Nov. 7-8. Storms may be accompanied by possible lightning and strong wind gusts. Further downpours could trigger additional flooding, especially over areas where the ground is saturated and river levels are high, as well as hamper ongoing recovery efforts.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. 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 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. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
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.
