Uruguay: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least May 8

Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are forecast across much of Uruguay through at least May 8. The Uruguayan Institute of Meteorology (INUMET) has issued a press release warning of strong storms and abundant rainfall across Urguay through May 8, with the heaviest rainfall likely in central, eastern, and northern regions. Storms could be accompanied by intense downpours, hail storms, lightning, and strong wind gusts. Rainfall accumulations of 15-25 cm (6-10 inches) are expected in some areas through May 8, with localized heavier accumulations possible. Dozens of families have been evacuated due to high river levels in parts of Artigas, Paysandu, and Salto departments and roads have been flooded in parts of Rio Negro Department as of May 6; authorities have warned that hundreds more people may be evacuated across central, eastern, and northern regions due to the risk of flooding over the coming days.

As of late morning May 7, INUMET has issued orange heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across much of central, eastern, western, and southern Uruguay and yellow warnings for parts of eastern, north-central, and southwestern Uruguay. Officials are likely to update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts depending on weather developments in the coming hours.

The storms will be capable of producing heavy downpours and damaging winds across the affected area. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger 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 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, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. 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.

Severe weather could also trigger intermittent flight delays and cancellations at regional airports, though these are unlikely to be severe or prolonged. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas.