Dominican Republic, Haiti: Adverse weather forecast across the Dominican Republic and Haiti through at least April 20

Event

A trough is forecast to bring heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds across parts of Haiti and the Dominican Republic through at least April 20.

The Dominican Republic's National Office of Meteorology (ONAMET) has warned of moderate to strong rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds over much of the country through April 20. Due to the possibility of flooding and landslides, weather alerts (middle level on a three-tier scale) have been issued for Azua, El Seibo, Peravia, Sanchez Ramirez, and Santiago Rodriguez provinces. Weather notices are in place for Barahona, Hato Mayor, La Vega, Maria Trinidad Sanchez, Monsenor Nouel, Monte Plata, Pedernales, San Cristobal, San Jose de Ocoa, Santiago, and Santo Domingo provinces.

The Hydro-Meteorological Unit of Haiti (UHM) has forecast scatted thunderstorms over much of the country through at least April 20. Flash floods are possible in the northwestern regions of Artibonite and Nord-Est departments.

Reports indicate that 230 people have been displaced across the Dominican Republic and 46 houses have been flooded or damaged in Santo Domingo, Duarte, Monsenor Nouel, San Cristobal, and Monte Plata provinces.

Hazardous Conditions
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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

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. If strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts. 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.

Resources

Hydro-Meteorological Unit of Haiti (UHM)
Dominican Republic National Office of Meteorology (ONAMET)