13 Sep 2023 | 01:14 AM UTC
Chile: Adverse weather forecast in central and southern regions through at least Sept. 15
Severe weather forecast in parts of central and southern Chile through Sept. 15. Transport, business, and utility disruptions possible.
Event
Thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, strong winds, and frost are forecast across parts of central and southern Chile through at least Sept. 15. The precipitation could trigger flooding and landslides in some affected areas. As of late Sept. 12, the Meteorological Directorate of Chile has issued the following weather warnings across the affected regions:
Orange rainfall warning (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Parts of eastern Los Lagos and eastern Los Rios regions through Sept. 15. The heaviest rainfall of up to 10.5 cm (4 inches) is forecast Sept. 14.
Yellow rainfall and strong wind warnings: the rest of the affected region through Sept. 15.
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
The thunderstorms could produce rounds of heavy rainfall and strong winds in the affected areas. Sustained 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 may contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. 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 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. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
