The COE warned that this data constitutes a preliminary assessment of the storm's consequences and could change as inspections progress in the affected provinces and new reports are incorporated from response institutions
SANTO DOMINGO. The Emergency Operations Center (COE) reported that, according to preliminary figures, rainfall associated with a trough affecting the Dominican Republic has left 32 communities isolated, damaged 534 homes, and affected 2,670 people. Additionally, the interruption of the drinking water supply is affecting 948,603 users, according to the figures available so far.
According to the agency's fourth situation report, 67 people have been displaced, four roads and highways have been damaged, and a bridge has been damaged. However, as of the report's release, authorities had not reported any fatalities or homes completely destroyed.
In that regard, the COE warned that this data constitutes a preliminary assessment of the storm's consequences and could change as inspections progress in the affected provinces and new reports from response institutions are incorporated.
River flooding and landslides isolate several communities
Among the most affected areas are Monte Plata, Azua, San José de Ocoa and San Cristóbal, where the increased flow of rivers, the overflowing of ravines and landslides have hindered transit and communication between localities.
In Monte Plata, for example, the rising Ozama River caused the collapse of the culvert-type bridge that connects Don Juan with Yamasá. Furthermore, the flooding left the communities of Gualer, Marmón, and El Chácaro isolated.
Similarly, the Guanuma River interrupted access to Las Cuestas del Jobo and El Vigía, while in Hatillo, the waters of the Ozama River hindered land communication with La Luisa, Hacienda Estrella and La Savita.
Meanwhile, in Azua, the Las Cuevas River overflowed in the municipality of Guayabal, cutting off the communities of Arroyo Corozo, Las Guamas, and Las Avispas. This was compounded by the overflowing of a stream, which temporarily blocked traffic on the Sánchez Highway, on the Azua-Baní stretch near Biyeya Beach. However, traffic was later restored.
Meanwhile, in San José de Ocoa, the rising waters of the Arroyo La Piedra river affected road access to La Ciénega, Los Tramojos, Los Limones, Los Negros, Mesa de Domingo, Sabana Abajo, El Cercado, El Mancebo, Arroyo Hondo, and Palo Esquina. According to the previous report, the situation in these areas had returned to normal, although authorities were maintaining vigilance due to the saturated ground.
Meanwhile, in Los Cacaos, San Cristóbal province, a landslide brought down a power pole and blocked access to several towns, including Presa de Higüey, Central Hidroeléctrica, Calderón, and Santana. Additionally, the overflowing of the Los Multi ravine prevented the passage of vehicles and pedestrians.
Meanwhile, in Santo Domingo East, flooding on the Las Américas highway near the tollbooth caused a temporary traffic disruption. In San Juan, a house sustained considerable damage, and its six occupants were relocated to the homes of family and friends.
Nearly one million users affected by the water service interruption
In addition to the damage to communities, the rainfall has compromised the functioning of drinking water supply systems.
According to data attributed to the National Institute of Drinking Water and Sewerage (INAPA), 67 aqueducts are out of service and two others are partially operating, a situation that affects 948,603 users.
Supply interruptions affect various provinces, including San Juan, Azua, Bahoruco, San Cristóbal, Monte Plata, Sánchez Ramírez and Barahona.
Compared to the balance of Tuesday, October 27, the figures reflect an increase, since at that time there were 28 inoperative aqueducts and 485,911 users affected by the lack of drinking water.
Relief agencies reinforce preventive surveillance
Given the persistent rains, the COE continues to monitor vulnerable areas and coordinates prevention measures with Civil Defense and other relief institutions.
In particular, authorities warn of the possibility of further river flooding, urban and rural flooding, as well as landslides, especially in areas that remain saturated with moisture.
Similarly, they continue to monitor communities near the Ozama River and other areas where worsening weather conditions could necessitate preventive evacuations.
For this reason, civil protection agencies urge the public not to cross flooded rivers, streams, ravines, or roads. They also recommend following the guidelines issued by the relevant authorities to reduce the risk of accidents.
Indomet forecasts more rainfall over the next few days
Regarding weather conditions, the Dominican Institute of Meteorology (Indomet) predicts that the trough will continue to generate downpours, thunderstorms and gusts of wind in different parts of the national territory.
According to forecasts, the rains could extend to the northwest, the border region, the Central Mountain Range, the Cibao Valley, and areas in the southeast. Therefore, it is recommended to maintain precautionary measures, especially in vulnerable areas.
Although a gradual decrease in rainfall and more favorable conditions are expected towards Friday, October 30, the evolution of the atmospheric system could modify the forecasts.
Finally, the authorities reiterate that the figures for isolated communities, damaged homes, displaced persons, and out-of-service water systems are preliminary and subject to change. Therefore, the data may change as assessments progress and information from the institutions involved in the emergency response is consolidated.
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