12 Oct 2023 | 08:07 AM UTC
Brazil: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across parts of Santa Catarina State as of Oct. 12
Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across Santa Catarina State, Brazil, as of Oct. 12. Further adverse weather forecast.
Event
Disruptions due to heavy rainfall and flooding are ongoing across parts of Santa Catarina State as of Oct. 12. The adverse weather has affected at least 138 of the state's 295 municipalities; around 98 municipalities are under a local state of emergency. As of early Oct. 12, authorities say there are at least two weather-related fatalities across the state. More than 12,000 people are displaced. Floodwaters have submerged or damaged several roads.
Further severe weather is likely in the region through at least Oct. 13 due to the passage of a cold front. Rainfall totals of 7-10 cm (2.8-3.9 inches) are expected in parts of the region Oct. 12; additional heavy downpours could trigger further flooding and associated disruptions. As of early Oct. 12, the National Institute of Meteorology (INMET) has issued orange storm warnings across Santa Catarina State. Officials will likely update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts 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 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 rain has saturated the soil. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are likely where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.
Floodwaters and debris flows will likely render additional 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 will probably temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flooding will likely block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are probable in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions are likely in low-lying and riverine areas.
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.
