South America: Adverse weather forecast across parts of northeastern Argentina, far southern Brazil, and Uruguay through at least Sept. 13

Event

Thunderstorms accompanied by heavy downpours, strong wind gusts, and possible hail storms are forecast across parts of northeastern Argentina, far southern Brazil, and much of Uruguay through at least Sept. 13. Heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas in affected regions and landslides on unstable slopes. Strong winds may cause power outages and property damage.

As of Sept. 11, Argentina's National Meteorological Service (SMN) has issued orange thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across central, northern, and southeastern Entre Rios Province. Yellow storm warnings are in place for the rest of Entre Rios, eastern and northeastern Buenos Aires, central and southern Corrientes, and eastern Santa Fe provinces.

Brazil's National Institute of Meteorology (INMET) has issued an orange storm warning (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across southern and western Rio Grande do Sul State through early Sept. 12. 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.

The Uruguayan Institute of Meteorology (INUMET) has issued orange storm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across central and western Uruguay and yellow storm warnings are in place across the rest of the country. A special weather bulletin has also been issued for strong storms Sept. 11 and less intense storms Sept. 12-13.

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 in the affected area. 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 impacted 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 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)
Brazil National Institute of Meteorology (INMET)
Uruguayan Institute of Meteorology (INUMET)