20 Sep 2022 | 02:45 PM UTC
Argentina: Adverse weather forecast across southeastern regions through at least Sept. 21
Heavy rainfall forecast across parts of southeastern Argentina through at least Sept. 21. Possible flooding and associated disruptions.
Event
Heavy rainfall is forecast across parts of southeastern Argentina through at least early Sept. 21. The affected area includes parts of eastern Chubut and northeastern Santa Cruz provinces. The heaviest rainfall is forecast in the southern and central coastal areas of Chubut Province Sept. 20, where rainfall totals of 4-8 cm (1.6-3.1 inches) are possible. The heavy downpours could trigger flash and urban flooding in affected areas. In elevated inland parts of the affected region precipitation may fall in the form of snow.
As of Sept. 20, the Argentinian National Meteorological Service (SMN) has issued the following weather warnings:
Red heavy rainfall warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Coastal areas of Escalante Department in Chubut Province.
Orange heavy rainfall warnings: Coastal areas of Florentino Ameghino and Rawson departments in Chubut province.
Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Across the rest of the affected area.
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
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 the region. 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.
