COE places 10 Dominican Republic areas under green alert for rain

The Dominican Republic’s Emergency Operations Center expanded its green alert on Sunday as a tropical wave threatened parts of the country with heavy rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds.

The alert covers El Seibo, Hato Mayor, La Altagracia, La Romana, Monte Plata, Samaná, San Cristóbal, San Pedro de Macorís, Sánchez Ramírez, Santo Domingo and the National District. Monte Plata, Sánchez Ramírez and San Cristóbal joined areas already placed under alert earlier in the day.

The COE said affected areas could receive between 50 and 75 millimeters of rain, increasing the risk of urban flooding, especially in low-lying zones and on roads. Moderate winds and occasional stronger gusts could accompany the storms.

The agency advised people to follow official bulletins, avoid crossing swollen rivers, streams, drainage channels or flooded streets, and stay away from trees and unstable structures. It also asked residents to secure loose outdoor objects.

For the next 24 to 72 hours, operators of fragile, small and medium-sized vessels along the Atlantic coast from Cabo Engaño to Cabo Francés Viejo were advised to remain in port. Vessels between Saona Island and Cabo Engaño were told to stay close to shore and avoid heading into open water because of stronger winds and abnormal waves.