23 Oct 2018 | 11:56 PM UTC
Nicaragua: Heavy rains leave at least 17 dead in October
Heavy rainfall and flooding leave at least 17 people dead in Nicaragua as of October 23; transportation disruptions expected in affected areas
Event
Heavy rainfall and consequent flooding have led to the deaths of at least 17 people across Nicaragua in recent weeks as of Tuesday, October 23. Most of the victims were killed when trying to cross swollen streams and rivers. Red weather alerts remain in effect for the departments of Boaco, Chinandega, Granada, Jinotega, León, Managua, Matagalpa, and Nueva Segovia, as well as North Caribbean Autonomous Region and South Caribbean Autonomous Region. The rest of the country is under yellow alerts. Associated transportation disruptions are to be expected in affected areas.
Context
Nicaragua typically experiences torrential rainfall from May through October.
Advice
Individuals in affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions prior to setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.
