Haiti: Deadly rains in Mirebalais May 2-3

Event

Several days of heavy rainfall in Mirebalais (Centre department) caused the partial collapse of a house overnight from Wednesday, May 2, to Thursday, May 3 (local time), leaving two people dead. A third individual was reportedly hospitalized from the collapse. Further rainfall is expected in Mirebalais and surrounding areas in the coming days, which may result in localized flooding and consequent material damages, casualties, and traffic disruptions.

Context

Due to poor infrastructure, cities and towns throughout Haiti are highly vulnerable to floods and emergency response efforts are often insufficient. Flooding is particularly common during the country's dual rainy seasons, which last from April to June and from August to October.

Advice

Individuals present in Haiti, particularly in Mirebalais, are advised to follow local weather forecasts and adhere to any orders issued by the 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.