TRAVEL TIMES IN SAO PAULO AFFECTED BY FLOODING

On 16 December 2009 northern, southern and eastern zones of Sao Paulo experienced moderate to heavy flooding. The northeastern neighbourhoods of Jacana, Tremembe, Santana and Tucuruvi were heavily affected, as well as nearly all eastern neighbourhoods. Marginal Tiete and Marginal Pinheiros, major highways running through Sao Paulo, also experienced moderate flooding. Severe traffic congestion and power outages occurred in affected areas, especially in northern and eastern Sao Paulo. On 17 December authorities confirmed that four people had died in the flooding. As of 17 December, the rains have ceased and crews have begun to clean up affected areas in the city. Nevertheless, traffic congestion is likely to be severe until the waters recede; visitors to Sao Paulo should plan for additional travel time for all ground transportation.