Puerto Rico: Disruptions due to flooding, storm damage, and heavy rainfall ongoing in parts of Puerto Rico as of April 8

Event

Disruptions due to flooding, storms, and heavy rainfall are ongoing across multiple areas of eastern Puerto Rico as of April 8, after storms impacted the area earlier in the day. Rain accumulations between 13-20 cm (5-8 inches) were recorded across the central-eastern, northeastern, and southeastern areas, with up to 33 cm (13 inches) recorded near San Lorenzo. Authorities report flooding has impacted numerous roads and highways, including PR-52 from Cuagas to Cayey, Highway 936 in Las Piedras, and Highway 941 and Highway 181 in Gurabo. Additionally, a section of Highway 3 is impassible, and landslides are reported on Highway 901 near Yabicoa.

Hazardous Conditions
Additional flash and areal flooding are possible. 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 downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.

Transport
Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Additional heavy rainfall will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or landslides, 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-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements before traveling in the affected area. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides, as well as mountainous regions where avalanches pose a threat. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.