Brazil: Flood-related disruptions persist in southern regions as of May 13 /update 7

Flood-related disruptions will likely persist in Rio Grande do Sul through much of May following heavy rainfall in the region. Rainfall accumulations of more than 80 cm (31 inches) have been recorded in parts of the state April 29-May 8, triggering widespread flooding and associated disruptions. Flooding has killed at least 143 people and injured 806 others, while another 125 are missing. Over 538,000 people have been displaced, and 2.1 million have been affected. Approximately 80,000 people are living in shelters. As of May 13, operations at Salgado Filho International Airport (POA) remain suspended until further notice. Public transport, including in Porto Alegre, is severely disrupted. Flood waters have cut off towns across the region, as hundreds of roads have been blocked by flooding across Rio Grande do Sul. At least 447 of the state's 497 municipalities have been affected, with Metropolitan, Central, Vale do Rio Pardo, Vale do Taquari, and Serra Gaucha amongst the worst-affected areas. Power outages are impacting multiple locations. The governor of Rio Grande do Sul has declared a state of calamity.

Water levels remain at critical levels in most river basins across the state. Further adverse weather is forecast over the coming days, likely exacerbating the ongoing flood situation. As of May 13, the National Institute of Meteorology has issued yellow heavy rainfall warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) across much of Rio Grande do Sul. Officials have warned of further electricity cuts and flooding. Officials are likely to update warnings in the days to come. Warnings are available here.

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 downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides remain possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil. Power outages and disruptions to telecommunications services will likely occur 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 in 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.

Severe weather could further trigger intermittent flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities will likely temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the Atlantic coast if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are probable in areas with heavy rainfall and track inundation. Localized business disruptions will likely occur in low-lying areas.

Health
Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters poses a severe health threat.