Ecuador: Adverse weather forecast across most of Ecuador through at least Feb. 18 /update 1

Event

Adverse weather is forecast across much of Ecuador through at least Feb. 18. As of early Feb. 14, Ecuador's National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (INAMHI) has issued a weather warning for rainfall and thunderstorms across most of the country. Red warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) have been issued across far western Azuay, far western Cotopaxi, El Oro, northern Guayas, Loja, Los Rios, eastern Manabi, and southern Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas provinces; daily rainfall totals up to 8 cm (3 inches) are possible in affected areas. Orange warnings are in place across parts of the coastal region in western Ecuador and the western Amazon region in the east, while yellow warnings have been issued across most of the rest of the country, except for the Andes down the central spine of the country. Storms may be accompanied by strong wind gusts and lightning.

Heavy rain since Feb. 9 has resulted in the Tutanangoza River overflowing and washing away a vehicle with seven occupants. Four people have been rescued and three others remain missing. Parts of Guayaquil City were flooded Feb. 9 and power outages were reported in the south of the city due to downed power lines.

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 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.

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. The disruptive weather may cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the affected regions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

Localized business disruptions may occur in areas impacted by severe weather; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of 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 Risk and Emergency Management Service (SNGRE)