Suriname: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across parts of the country as of May 27

Event

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across parts of Suriname following weeks of heavy rainfall. Sothern and interior parts of the country have been worst affected and President Chandrikapersad Santokhi declared several districts as disaster areas May 25, including Brokopondo District. Overflowing rivers have led to many families in affected regions being moved to higher ground. Many homes have been damaged and schools have been forced to closed. The flooding has restricted access to some areas due to damaged roads, leaving some areas only accessible by air or boat. Disruptions to power and water supplies are ongoing in some areas and damage to crops has led to food insecurity. Further rainfall is likely in the coming days and weeks, with the rainy season running through till mid-August. Additional downpours will likely exacerbate the situation in areas already experiencing flooding and hamper ongoing recovery efforts.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained 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 airports in affected regions. 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.