11 Jan 2023 | 11:06 AM UTC
Argentina: Adverse weather forecast across eastern and southern Chubut Province through at least Jan. 12
Heavy rainfall and strong winds forecast across parts of Chubut Province, Argentina, through Jan. 12. Flooding and disruptions possible.
Event
Heavy rainfall is forecast across parts of eastern and southern Chubut Province through at least early Jan. 12. The heaviest rainfall is forecast in coastal areas, where rainfall totals of 3-6 cm (1.2-2.4 inches) are likely. Rainfall totals of 1.5-3.5 cm (0.6-1.4 inches) are expected across much of the rest of the affected area, as well as winds gusting up to 90 kph (56 mph). The heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds could cause property damage and power outages.
As of early Jan. 11, the Argentinian National Meteorological Service (SMN) has issued orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across central and southern coastal areas of Chubut and yellow heavy rainfall warnings across much of the rest of the affected area. Yellow strong wind warnings have been issued across eastern and northeastern parts of the province. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
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. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region. 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.
