Ecuador: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least March 11. Flooding likely to continue through March 14 /update 1

Event

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across much of Ecuador through March 11, while flooding is likely to continue through at least March 14. The National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (INAMHI) has issued a weather warning with orange and yellow level heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings (the second and third highest levels on a three-tier scale) covering most of mainland Ecuador. The most intense weather is forecast in southern and inland parts of the coastal region and the Amazon region's central and northern parts. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

Flooding and disruptions are ongoing in some regions as of late March 10. Heavy rainfall March 4-6 resulted in more than 40 landslides and 10 floods across 11 provinces and affected at least 1,150 meters (3,773 feet) of roads. The worst-hit areas include El Oro, Loja, and Pichincha provinces.

Flooding is ongoing in Pucayacu in Cotopaxi Province after the Quindigua River burst its banks following heavy rainfall March 7, damaging at least 180 houses along the river. Authorities have evacuated an unconfirmed number of people in the town due to the flooding. Reports also indicate intermittent power and water supply disruptions and damage or destruction of at least eight bridges, isolating around 15,000 people in Choalom, Guasaganda, Guayacan, La Playita, Malqui, and Pucayacu.

Heavy rainfall in Cuenca in Azuay Province March 5-6 triggered flooding and landslides in the area. Floodwaters swept at least one person away, and landslides have blocked several roads in the area. The parish of Tarqui has experienced severe flooding, while a bridge collapsed in the parish of Molleturo.

Hazardous Conditions
The storms will be capable of producing heavy downpours and damaging winds across affected areas. Should sustained heavy rainfall occur, it could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel 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 intermittent flight delays and cancellations at regional airports, though these are unlikely to be severe or prolonged. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas.

Advice

Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Ecuadorian National Institute of Meteolrogy and Hydrology (INAMHI) (Spanish)