Bolivia: Rain and storm alerts in various areas December 1-2

Event

The Bolivian weather service SENAMHI (Servicio Nacional de Meteorología e Hidrología) has issued orange alerts - the second-highest on a four-tier scale - for parts of the departments of Cochabamba, Beni, Santa Cruz, and La Paz, due to heavy rains and storms expected December 1-2. Up to 9 cm (3.5 in) of rainfall is expected, which could lead to flooding and/or landslides.  The alerts are in effect for the following provinces: Carrasco, Chapare, Guarayos, José Miguel de Velasco, Ángel Sandoval, Ichilo (northern parts), Sara (northern parts), Obispo Santistevan (northern parts), Ñuflo de Chávez (northern parts), Moxos, Marbán, Cercado, José Ballivián, Yacuma, Mamoré, Iténez, Vaca Diéz, Sur Yungas, Caranavi, Larecaja, Franz Tamayo, and Abel Iturralde.  

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.

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.