18 Nov 2022 | 03:32 PM UTC
Trinidad and Tobago: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across Port of Spain and other parts of northern Trinidad as of Nov. 18
Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across northern Trinidad, Trinidad and Tobago, as of Nov. 18. Overland transport disruptions likely.
Event
Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across many parts of northern Trinidad, including Port of Spain, as of Nov. 18. Heavy rainfall Nov. 17 caused flooding in parts of the capital, including on Chacon, Colville, Edward, Henry, Lower Charlotte, St. Vincent, and Richmond streets, as well as South Quay and Independence Square South. Traffic was also held up by a fallen tree and debris on Wrightson Road. Further flooding was reported in parts of San Juan and Arouca outside Port of Spain.
The floodwaters have not receded overnight in many places and the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service has forecast further showers with a chance of thunderstorms and heavy downpours across Trinidad through at least Nov. 20. Several rivers are at dangerously high levels, including the Caroni River, which authorities have reported is at 91 percent capacity at El Carmen. Further downpours will likely trigger additional flooding in the coming days, as well as hamper ongoing recovery efforts.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional 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 could render bridges 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.
Localized business disruptions are likely 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.
