SANTO DOMINGO. Due to its location in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic is exposed to meteorological phenomena such as hurricanes, tropical storms, and heavy rainfall. These events have had considerable impacts on the country's infrastructure, particularly affecting bridges, roads, and buildings located in vulnerable areas. The frequency of these phenomena has highlighted shortcomings in the design, maintenance, and location of many structures.
In recent years, numerous cases of partial or total bridge collapses have been reported, as well as damage to public and private buildings. The most common causes include river flooding, water accumulation in storm drains, and erosion of structural foundations due to prolonged rainfall.
During the hurricane season between 2020 and 2025, multiple incidents were recorded that compromised the stability of infrastructure throughout the country. The Ministry of Public Works carried out emergency repairs in provinces such as Espaillat, Puerto Plata, and San Cristóbal, according to official reports published in 2025.
Constance and the Tireo River (October 2025)
In October 2025, heavy rains caused the Tireo River to overflow in Constanza. As a result, three rural bridges, including those connecting Luz Asunción Abreu and Suriel, collapsed, leaving these communities isolated. This event was confirmed by the Emergency Operations Center (COE) in its reports for that year.
Urban flooding in Santo Domingo (May 2023)
A trough of low pressure in May 2023 caused severe flooding in Greater Santo Domingo. Avenues such as 27 de Febrero, John F. Kennedy, and Gregorio Luperón were affected by the excess water. Although no bridges collapsed, traffic was paralyzed and several buildings suffered damage. Municipal authorities initiated a review of the urban drainage systems following this event, as documented in local media.
Rainfall on November 4, 2022
On November 4, 2022, heavy rains lashed much of the country, causing flooding on main avenues in Greater Santo Domingo, downed trees, collapsed walls, and damage to homes. In areas such as La Zurza, Gualey, and Los Ríos, leaks and roofs being torn off were reported. This situation was described in a publication by El Inmobiliario that same year.
Puerto Plata and the rural bridges (2022)
During a tropical wave in 2022, the Agua Azul River in Puerto Plata overflowed its banks and damaged the rural bridge connecting agricultural areas to the town center. Traffic was suspended for several days, and temporary repairs were made. Residents indicated that the bridge had been previously reinforced, but it could not withstand the volume of water. This incident was reported by Listín Diario in 2022.
Impact on school and community buildings (2021–2024)
Between 2021 and 2024, several rain events affected schools, community centers, and hospitals. In areas such as Villa Mella and Sabana Perdida, leaks, ceiling detachment, and damage to electrical systems were reported. These incidents were documented in municipal reports and featured in news articles, such as those published by Listín Diario in 2023.
Isolation of rural communities (2020–2024)
Bridge collapses in rural areas have led to the temporary isolation of farming communities in provinces such as Elías Piña, Monte Plata, and San Juan. In many cases, residents have had to resort to alternative or makeshift routes to access basic services. These incidents coincide with periods of heavy rainfall and were reported by Listín Diario in 2021.
San Cristóbal and Azua: high-risk areas (2020)
San Cristóbal and Azua are among the provinces most prone to landslides and flooding. Bridges crossing rivers and ravines in these areas have suffered damage from erosion and sediment buildup. During Tropical Storm Laura in 2020, several road sections became impassable, and partial collapses were reported in smaller structures, such as the bridge over the Nigua River. This situation was documented by Listín Diario in a publication that year.
The recurrence of these events in different regions of the country underscores the urgent need for constant monitoring of the structural condition of bridges and buildings, especially in vulnerable areas. Compiling these cases allows for the identification of impact patterns that can inform future mitigation strategies and territorial planning
