Rio Report -- Bid Book Warned of Flooding

(ATR) Floods striking Rio de Janeiro this week are flagged as a possibility in the bid book submitted in 2009 when the city was a candidate for the 2016 Olympics.

The bid book warned of "periodic and localized flooding that can occasionally occur in parts of Rio".

But the bid book also points out that Games will take place Aug. 5 – 21 during the dry season, "avoiding any potential for adverse effects" from flooding.

Nonetheless, floods could still cause complications for construction needed for the Games which will be taking place year-round in the lead-up to 2016 – and the 2014 World Cup.

Maracana Stadium and the surrounding sports complex suffered damage from the floods. Football club Flamengo postponed a match scheduled for this week but its not clear if the postponement was due to rainor damage to the stadium.

The record-breaking rain shows no signs of letting up on Wednesday.

Authorities said on Wednesday morning that 102 people have died as a result of the flooding and mudslides.

Brazilian president Luis Inacio Lula da Silva sad the Olympics and 2014 World Cup will not be impacted by the floods.

"Rio is prepared to stage the Olympics and World Cup, with great tranquility" he said. The situation is now in God’s hands Lula added.

"The only thing we can do is ask God to stop the rain".

Rio 2016 president Carlos Nuzman told Brazilian media the IOC has offered "absolute support" for Rio following the flooding. Nuzman is in Lausanne for the 2016 bid city debrief.

The IOC said in a statement "Our thoughts are with the people of Rio, especially those who lost members of their families due to the exceptional floods that hit the state."

The IOC said it was talking to Rio 2016 and the Brazilian Olympic Committee to learn more about the flood's impact.

Written by Ed Hula III.