Haiti, Dominican Republic: Adverse weather forecast across both countries through at least Feb. 2

Severe weather forecast across much of Haiti and the Dominican Republic through at least Feb. 2. Flooding ongoing in parts of Haiti.

Event

An active weather front is forecast to bring further rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds across much of Haiti and the Dominican Republic through at least Feb. 2. Heavy rainfall in recent days has caused flooding in parts of Nord, Nord-Est, and Nippes departments in Haiti.

The Hydro-Meteorological Unit of Haiti (UHM) has forecast further rainfall across the country Feb. 1-2. The heaviest rainfall is expected in Nord and Grand Anse departments, with a risk of flash flooding in these departments, as well as Centre Department.

The National Office of Meteorology (ONAMET) has warned of moderate to strong rainfall and thunderstorms across much of the Dominican Republic through Feb. 2, with strong winds in northwestern, northeastern, and northern areas, as well as over the mountains in central regions. Strong waves are expected along the Atlantic coast. Due to the possibility of flooding and landslides, weather warnings have been issued for Espaillat, Montecristi, Puerto Plata, Santiago, and Valverde provinces. Early warning weather alerts have been issued for Dajabon, Duarte, Hermanas Mirabel, La Vega, Maria Trinidad, Monsenor Nouel, Monte Plata, Samana, Sanchez Ramirez, and Santiago Rodriguez provinces.

Heavy rainfall Jan. 29-31 caused flooding across 13 municipalities in parts of Nord, Nord-Est, and Nippes departments in Haiti. Flash flooding and overflowing rivers flooded over 2,500 homes across the affected area and forced thousands of families to evacuate. Several neighborhoods of Cap-Haitien have been affected and over 300 homes in the Anse a Veau area of Nippes Department were flooded. A bridge collapsed on the main road entering the town of Ferrier in Nord-Est Department and flooding has occurred at the Caracole power plant, leading to power outages in the region. Across the Dominican Republic 1,720 people have been displaced, 344 homes flooded, and one main road made impassable by floodwaters.

Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.