Brazil: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across Rio de Janeiro as of Jan. 15 /update 1

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across the Rio de Janeiro metropolitan region as of Jan. 15. Heavy rainfall Jan. 13-14 triggered flooding and landslides across parts of the region. Authorities have reported at least 11 weather-related fatalities as of early Jan. 15 and one other person remains missing. The metro system and many homes were inundated by floodwaters. The mayor has declared a state of emergency across Rio de Janeiro due to the flooding. Further adverse weather is forecast in the region over the coming days and the National Institute of Meteorology is maintaining a yellow heavy rainfall warning (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) across parts of Rio de Janeiro State as of Jan. 15.

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. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.

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 with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions may occur 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.