PDC Weekly Global Flood Survey: February 23, 2012
Figure 1. PDC Global Hazards Atlas displaying 7 day precipitation accumulation and PDC Integrated Active Hazards.
Over the last week, precipitation has been heavy in many parts of the globe with standout areas of flooding occurring throughout Southeast Asia, and in parts of Australia, the America, Southern Africa, and Southern and Eastern Europe (parts of which are shown in Figure 1). This precipitation has resulted in flood events being reported on every continent. This week’s rain pattern is consistent with the long-term La Nina forecast that we have been discussed in previous PDC Global Flood Survey products. Below are a few snap shots of recent precipitation and active flood events, to include impacts on the local population and expected weather conditions for the areas over the next several days.
Precipitation & Flooding: South America
Figure 2. PDC Global Hazards Atlas displaying 7 day precipitation accumulation and PDC Integrated Active Hazards.
As was the case last week, much of the interior sections of South America has received locally heavy rains (See Figure 2). Consistent rain has resulted in extensive flooding in Guyana, Ecuador, Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, and Chile.
This satellite image of South American is provided by Space Science and Engineering Center (SSEC) of the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Figure 3. PDC Global Hazards Atlas Centered over South America displaying 3 day precipitation accumulation and PDC Integrated Active Hazards.
Brazil Flooding: According to the reliefweb website, the worst rains in over five years caused the Acre River area to flood. There has been a negative impact on over 60,000 people, leaving over 7,000 local residents homeless. This flooding event has been reported as the second highest in local history. Light rain is predicted in this area over the next several days, as the rainy season continues. (Figure 3. above shows this large area, and the regions just below)
The forecast for Brazil includes continued precipitation over the next several days.
Bolivia Flooding: According to RSOE, Several South American countries remain today in a state of emergency due to heavy rainfall associated with La Niña weather phenomenon that has unleashed chaos in the region in recent days. At least 10 people died and more than 9,000 families lost their homes and crops in Bolivia as a result of heavy rainfall since December, which caused mudslides and overflowing in rivers across the country. The Government of La Paz on Wednesday declared a national emergency and authorized the distribution of 162 tons of aid to victims, currently housed in schools, churches and other facilities. Many villages remain cut off by floods that caused the collapse of bridges and flooded the fields, with consequent loss of potato, quinoa and barley fields.
The forecast for Bolivia includes continued precipitation over the next several days.
Ecuador Flooding: According to RSOE, the Government of Ecuador has established flood alerts in twelve provinces. According to the Ecuadorian Civil Defense, the past weekend 85 people were killed by traffic accidents and heavy rains that left several drowned and electrocuted, and 20 people are still listed as missing. The Ministry of Health has also warned of a dengue outbreak, which can be exacerbated by the rains and standing water. Since the beginning of 2012 one death and 1,233 people are reported infected.
The forecast for Ecuador shows less precipitation over the next several days.
Precipitation & Flooding: Southeast Asia
Figure 4. PDC Global Hazards Atlas centered over Southeast Asia desplaying 3 day precipitation accumulation and PDC Integrated Active Hazards.
Since the start of 2012 Southeast Asia has experienced considerable rainfall, to be expected during this La Nina event, and has continued over the last week. Currently there is ongoing flooding in Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines (Figure 4).
This satellite image of Southeast Asia is provided by digital-typhoon.org
Sumatra, Indonesia Flooding: According to reliefweb, officials are trying to determine how many casualties and homes were swept away by flash floods in West Sumatra. This recent event is continuing to be monitored as assistance is being provided by the nearby cities of Batusangkar and Bukittinggi.
The forecast for Indonesia includes continued precipitation over the next several days.
Malaysian Flooding: According to Malaysian Meteorological Department, there is a warning for thunderstorms and heavy rainfall and flooding. Scattered thunderstorms and heavy rain occurring over the states of Perak (Hilir Perak District) and Selangor (Sabak Bernam, Kuala Selangor, Kelang and Petaling Districts) are expected to persist until morning, Friday, 24 February 2012. These condition may cause strong winds and flash floods over the next several days. PDC will be monitoring this event and as more information on the impacts to population become available.
The forecast for Malaysia includes continued precipitation over the next several days.
Looking Ahead
Over the next week PDC will continue to monitor areas of high precipitation and keep a close eye on flooding across the globe. Currently PDC is monitoring flood events in the following areas: Australia, Bolivia, Brazil, Burundi, Chile, Ecuador, England, Guyana, Indonesia, Malaysia, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Uganda, United States
For the most up-to-date information on these flood events and all-hazards, download the free PDC Disaster Alert mobile app for iOS and Android devices.
