Dominican Republic issues weather alert for nine provinces amid flood risk

The Dominican Republic's Emergency Operations Center (COE) has issued a green alert for nine provinces, warning of potential flash floods, overflowing rivers, and landslides. The alert covers Santo Domingo, the National District, San Cristóbal, Santiago Rodríguez, Dajabón, La Vega, San Juan, Santiago, and Valverde.

This measure follows a meteorological bulletin from the Dominican Institute of Meteorology (Indomet). Indomet anticipates scattered showers and thunderstorms throughout the day, intensifying in the afternoon and evening. These conditions are attributed to an approaching tropical wave and a trough.

Coastal areas are also affected. Operators of small and fragile vessels are advised to exercise caution along the Caribbean coast, particularly south and southwest of Pedernales, and to avoid venturing far offshore due to abnormal winds and waves. No restrictions are in place for the rest of the Caribbean coast or the Atlantic coast.

Recent weather events have already caused damage. In San Juan province, heavy rains and winds damaged 15 homes, with seven losing their roofs entirely and eight suffering partial damage. Santiago Rodríguez reported fallen trees obstructing roads and one partially damaged home. Dajabón also saw a tree fall, blocking a road, while Hermanas Mirabal experienced wind damage affecting several communities. Authorities have worked to clear debris and restore traffic in affected areas.