12 Sep 2023 | 03:03 PM UTC
Brazil: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across parts of Rio Grande do Sul State as of Sept. 12 /update 2
Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, as of Sept. 12. Casualties and damage reported.
Event
Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across parts of Rio Grande do Sul State as of Sept. 12. A storm system brought strong winds, heavy rainfall, and hail across the region Sept. 3-4, and has been followed by further showers and storms in the intervening days. Rainfall totals of more than 20 cm (8 inches) were recorded in some areas in early September, triggering widespread flooding and damage to homes and transport networks. As of late Sept. 12, authorities have reported at least 47 weather-related fatalities across Rio Grande do Sul State; more than 900 people have been injured and 46 others are missing. Around 340,000 people have been affected by the severe weather across 97 municipalities and more than 25,000 people have been displaced. Delays and cancelations have been reported at Salgado Filho Porto Alegre International Airport (POA) since Sept. 11, with eight flights canceled on Sept. 12.
Further adverse weather is likely in the region over the coming days. As of Sept. 12, the National Institue of Meteorology (INMET) has issued orange storm warnings across most of the state through early Sept. 13. Rainfall totals of 3-6 cm (1.1-2.4 inches) per hour or 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) per day are expected in the warning area, as well as winds between 60-100 kph (37-62 mph) and possible hail storms. Additional heavy rainfall will likely exacerbate the situation due to high river levels and saturated soil, as well as hamper ongoing recovery efforts.
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.
