28 Sep 2017 | 07:16 PM UTC
Dominican Republic: Nearly 19,000 still displaced after hurricane /update 5
Almost 19,000 people remain displaced by Hurricane Maria and subsequent flooding as of Sep. 27; further rains forecast
Event
Nearly 19,000 people remain displaced in the Dominican Republic as of Wednesday, September 27, after Hurricane Maria and subsequent heavy rains. Reports say Monte Cristi and Duarte provinces were hardest hit by rains and flooding, with lesser flooding reported in Samaná, Espaillat, and Maria Trinidad Sánchez provinces. While most floodwaters have subsided, further rain is forecast for the coming days which could cause further flooding.
Officials say nearly 26 municipalities remain cut off from relief services, with 350,000 people suffering from a lack of potable water.
Context
Localized flooding and some infrastructural damage in the north and east of the country were reported after Hurricane Maria passed off the northern coast on September 21.
Storms are common in the region during the Atlantic Hurricane Season, which officially runs from June 1 to November 30, with a peak of storm activity typically observed in late August and September.
Advice
Individuals present in the Dominican Republic are advised to keep abreast of further weather alerts, be aware of potential localized flooding and disruption to travel, confirm travel reservations, and adhere to all advice issued by the local authorities.
In the event of flooding, remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.
