Guatemala: Emergency response operations ongoing following flooding in Guatemala City as of early Sept. 26

Event

Response operations and associated disruptions due to flooding are ongoing in parts of Guatemala City as of early Sept. 26. Search operations continue in the Dios Es Fiel informal settlement in Zone 7 of the city, where at least six homes were swept away by floodwaters in the Naranjo River early Sept. 25 following heavy rainfall in recent days. As of early Sept. 26, authorities have reported six fatalities and 12 others are still missing. Transport disruptions associated with the response operations were reported around the El Naranjo Bridge Sept. 25, which links the municipality of Mixco to other parts of the city; motorists have been advised to seek alternative routes. Further disruptions are likely through at least Sept. 26 as emergency operations continue. Response efforts were hampered by continued heavy rainfall Sept. 25 and further scattered showers and storms are forecast over the coming days.

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 stormwater drainage systems. Sites located 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 the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, resulting in overland travel disruptions in and 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. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region. 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 are likely in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and employees' inability to reach work sites. Residual disruptions are likely once flooding has subsided as authorities work to clear debris and any flood damage.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Allow extra time for travel in the affected area and plan alternative routes if necessary. Do not drive on flooded roads.

Resources

National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology of Guatemala (INSUVIMEH)
National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction of Guatemala (CONRED)