Dominican Republic, Haiti: Adverse weather forecast across multiple regions through at least Nov. 3

Event

A weather front is forecast to bring heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds across parts of Haiti and the Dominican Republic through at least Nov. 3. The adverse weather could trigger flooding, landslides, and associated disruptions in areas of the affected countries.

The Dominican Republic's National Office of Meteorology (ONAMET) has warned of downpours, thunderstorms, and strong wind gusts over provinces in the northeast, southeast, southwest, central mountain range, and the Haiti border area Nov. 1. Conditions are forecast to improve from late Nov. 1; however, isolated showers and storms are possible over parts of the country Nov. 2-3. Due to the possibility of flooding and landslides, yellow weather alerts (the middle level on a three-tier scale) have been issued for Barahona, El Seibo, La Romana, San Pedro de Macoris, and Sanchez Ramirez provinces. Green weather alerts are in place for Greater Santo Domingo, Hato Mayor, Monte Plata, Peravia, and San Cristobal provinces.

The Hydro-Meteorological Unit of Haiti (UHM) has forecast scattered thunderstorms and showers over much of the country Nov. 1, especially in parts of Artibonite, Nord, Nord-Ouest, Ouest, and Sud departments. Slightly more intense showers are forecast over the whole country Nov. 2-3.

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)