Argentina, Paraguay: Adverse weather forecast across parts of northeastern Argentina and southern Paraguay July 12

Event

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across parts of northeastern Argentina and southern Paraguay on July 12. Storms may be accompanied by strong winds, lightning, and possible hail. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. Strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

Argentina's National Meteorological Service (SMN) has issued orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across much of eastern and southeastern Entre Rios Province and orange storm warnings across much of Corrientes Province. Yellow storm warnings are in place across much of the rest of the affected area, and yellow heavy rainfall warnings have been issued for the rest of Entre Rios Province and far northern Buenos Aires Province. Yellow wind warnings are also in place across much of Corrientes and Entre Rios provinces. Rainfall totals of 2-9 cm (0.8-3.5 inches) are expected across the affected area, as well as winds gusting up to 70 kph (43 mph).

The Paraguayan Directorate of Meteorology and Hydrology has issued a weather warning for heavy rainfall with moderately intense thunderstorms, strong-to-very-strong winds, and occasional hail across southern parts of the country. The affected area includes western Itapua, Misiones, Neembucu, and southern Paraguari departments.

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 and 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
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions across parts of the country. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.

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.

Resources

Argentina National Meteorological Service (SMN)
Paraguay Directorate of Meteorology and Hydrology