Argentina: Adverse weather forecast across parts of Santa Cruz Department Dec. 31

Officials issued red and orange (the highest and second-highest levels) rain warnings for northwestern parts of the Santa Cruz Department on Dec. 31. Authorities could review and update advisories in the coming hours.

Flooding is possible in low-lying areas. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil. Floodwaters and debris flows may render bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and employees' inability to reach work sites. Electricity and telecommunications service disruptions are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.