Bolivia: Widespread rain and flood alerts March 19-21 /update 8

Event

Heavy rain continues to batter Bolivia amid the ongoing rainy season. As of Monday, March 19, alerts for torrential rain and river-adjacent flooding issued by the Bolivian weather service SENAMHI (Servicio Nacional de Meteorología e Hidrología) are in effect in various areas of the country; they are set to remain in place through at least March 21. Rain alerts are in effect in parts of the departments of Chuquisaca, Santa Cruz, Cochabamba, La Paz, Beni, and Pando. Concerned rivers include the Mamore, Suches, Pilcomayo, and Beni, along with their tributaries and basins.

Context

Flooding is common in Bolivia during the rainy season (October to April) and can result in significant transportation disruptions, structural damage, and loss of life. Tens of thousands of people have been affected by the rains thus far this season in Bolivia, which have been persistent since November 2017. At least 12 deaths have been reported and some 1140 homes have been completely destroyed.

Advice

Individuals present in Bolivia are advised to monitor local weather reports and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.