Ecuador: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through Feb. 3 /update 1

Event

Rainfall is forecast across much of Ecuador through Feb. 3, with the heaviest rainfall expected across the central highlands region. The adverse weather will likely exacerbate the situation in areas that have experienced flooding following heavy rainfall in recent days.

Heavy rainfall led to flash floods and landslides in northern Quito late Jan. 31. As of Feb. 1, authorities have reported 14 fatalities, 32 others injured, and three homes destroyed after intense rainfall sent mudflows, floodwaters, and debris through the streets of the La Gasca neighborhood. Emergency shelters have been set up at eight locations across the capital for the hundreds of families affected by the flooding. Power outages are occurring in Avenue America, Colegio Mejia, La Basilica, Miraflores, and San Juan areas due to downed power lines and damage caused to an electrical power substation at Miraflores. Response operations are ongoing as of Feb. 1. Flooding has also occurred in Guayas, Cotopaxi, El Oro, and Los Rios provinces in recent days.

Hazardous Conditions
Further 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 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 the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and 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 flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

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 some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Ecuador National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (INAMHI) (Spanish)