05 Jun 2023 | 10:55 PM UTC
Haiti: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across most of the country as of late June 5 /update 1
Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across most of Haiti as of late June 5. Death toll increasing as search and rescue operations progress.
Event
Disruptions from flooding are ongoing across Haiti as of late June 5. The worst affected areas are Centre, Nippes, Nord-Ouest, Ouest, and Sud-Est departments. Officials have confirmed at least 42 fatalities and 85 persons injured due to flooding and landslides. About 11 people remain missing. The death toll will likely rise as search and rescue operations progress. Authorities have evacuated almost 13,400 people. Flooding has reportedly damaged more than 13,600 homes, in addition to causing significant damage to crops in central Haiti where food shortages remain problematic. Several communities are cut off due to flooding.
The Hydro-Meteorological Unit of Haiti (UHM) has forecast scattered thunderstorms and showers throughout the country through June 6. The adverse weather could trigger additional flooding, landslides, and associated disruptions.
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 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 additional 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 airports across the affected region. If strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts.
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 is forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
