Brazil: Disruptions due to flooding continue across Acre State as of March 6 /update 1

Disruptions due to flooding continue to affect much of Acre State as of March 6. Heavy rainfall has impacted the region since Feb. 25, causing rivers to overflow, including the Acre and Jurua rivers, and triggering widespread flooding. As of March 6, more than 26,000 people have been displaced across the state, of whom around 9,500 are being temporarily accommodated in 91 shelters established across 13 affected municipalities. Officials have estimated that around 100,000 people across Acre have been affected by the flooding and authorities have declared a state of emergency in 19 out of the state's 22 municipalities.

Further adverse weather is forecast in the region over the coming days and the National Institute of Meteorology is maintaining yellow heavy rainfall warnings (the middle and lowest level on a three-tier scale) across Acre as of early March 6. Further isolated showers and thunderstorms are forecast across Acre through at least March 10.

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.