11 Jul 2023 | 02:14 PM UTC
Brazil: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across parts of Alagoas and Pernambuco states as of late July 11
Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across Alagoas and Pernambuco states, Brazil, as of July 11. Thousands displaced across the region.
Event
Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across parts of Alagoas and Pernambuco states as of July 11 following heavy rainfall in recent days. Authorities in Alagoas have declared a state of emergency in 31 municipalities due to flooding. More than 24,000 people have been displaced across the state. Authorities have declared a state of emergency in 12 municipalities, primarily in coastal areas of Pernambuco, and nearly 3,000 people have been displaced. At least 14 people were killed after an apartment building collapsed amid heavy rainfall in the Janga neighborhood on the outskirts of Recife on July 7. Weather conditions are generally forecast to improve in the region over the coming days; however, lingering disruptions are likely in flood-affected areas as it may take some time for the floodwaters to recede.
Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are likely where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel 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 possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying and riverine areas.
Health
Flooding could heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and water-borne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. 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. 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. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers.
Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming days. Review contingency plans and be prepared to move quickly to shelters if evacuation orders are issued. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
