Brazil: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across parts of Espirito Santo and Rio de Janeiro states as of March 25

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across parts of Espirito Santo and Rio de Janeiro states as of March 25. Heavy rainfall associated with a passing cold front has been ongoing in the region since March 21 and has triggered widespread flooding and landslides that have impacted many areas of both states. As of early March 25, authorities in Espirito Santo have confirmed at least 17 fatalities across the state associated with the adverse weather, including 15 in Mimoso do Sul. More than 5,400 people have been evacuated from affected areas of the state, and around 270 homes have been destroyed. Eight fatalities have been reported across Rio de Janeiro State in Petropolis, Teresopolis, Duque de Caxias, and Arraial do Cabo due to flooding, landslides, and lightning. The state fire department has responded to more than 200 rain-related incidents since March 21, rescuing around 160 people. 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 lowest level on a three-tier scale) across Rio de Janeiro and central and southern Espirito Santo as of early March 25.

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.