Dominican Republic, Haiti: Adverse weather forecast across both countries through at least Feb. 29

A weather front is forecast to bring heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds across much of Haiti and the Dominican Republic through at least Feb. 29. 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 issued yellow weather alerts (the middle level on a three-tier scale) for Espaillat, Hermanas Mirabal, Maria Sanchez Trinidad, Monsenor Nouel, and Puerto Plata provinces due to the possibility of flooding and landslides. Green weather alerts are in place for Duarte, La Vega, Monte Plata, Samana, San Cristobal, Sanchez Ramirez, Santiago, and Santo Domingo provinces, as well as the Santo Domingo National District. The Hydro-Meteorological Unit of Haiti (UHM) has forecast strengthening rainfall across the country over the coming days, with the heaviest rainfall likely in Grand'Anse, Nord, and Ouest departments.

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.

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.