Venezuela braces for two new tropical waves after heavy rains cause flooding

Venezuela is expected to face two new tropical waves this week after heavy rains caused flooding and river overflows in Caracas and surrounding areas.

The National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (INAMEH) said tropical wave 41 is currently over northeastern French Guiana and is expected to reach Venezuela between Monday and Tuesday.

Tropical wave 42 is moving across the central tropical Atlantic and could reach Venezuela’s Essequibo region between Thursday and Friday.

INAMEH forecast rainfall and thunderstorms of varying intensity across much of the country on Sunday.

Heavier rainfall is expected in several regions, including Bolivar and Amazonas in southern Venezuela; Anzoategui and Monagas in the east; Lara and Zulia in the west and northwest; and the Andes in western Venezuela.

The forecast follows heavy rains on Saturday that caused flooding and river overflows in Caracas and Miranda state.

More than 60 vehicles were affected after the Guaire River overflowed onto the Valle-Coche highway in Caracas, according to local media reports.

Flooding was also reported in the Coche and La Vega areas, while the Guaire River rose significantly in Petare.

In Miranda state, a house collapsed in the Los Cerritos sector of Los Teques, while authorities reported people missing after vehicles were swept away by rising waters.

Venezuelan authorities activated the Civil Protection System following the heavy rains associated with tropical wave 40.

Response teams were deployed in several areas of Greater Caracas and Miranda state, according to the Venezuelan News Agency.

Acting President Delcy Rodriguez ordered the activation of emergency mechanisms and said authorities were monitoring weather conditions and vulnerable areas. Authorities have urged residents in areas affected by heavy rainfall to remain alert.