06 Oct 2022 | 11:54 AM UTC
Trinidad and Tobago: Widespread disruptions due to flooding ongoing across much of the country as of Oct. 6
Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across parts of Trinidad and Tobago as of Oct. 6. Overland transport disruptions likely.
Event
Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across many parts of Trinidad and Tobago as of Oct. 6. Heavy rainfall associated with a tropical disturbance passing through the region, referred to as Invest 91L, has been impacting the country since late Oct. 4. The downpours have been accompanied by thunderstorms, strong winds, and lightning. Authorities have reported at least one fatality associated with the flooding in Tunapuna-Piarco Region and numerous roads have been made impassable by floodwaters across affected areas. At least one bridge has been damaged and schools have been suspended in several areas due to the adverse weather. Authorities have reported flooding in at least 75 locations, with eastern and northern parts of Trinidad the worst affected. Several rivers, including the Caroni River, are at dangerously high levels and have burst their banks in places.
The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service has warned that although the tropical disturbance has now passed to the west of the country, further adverse weather is likely in the coming days. The service has issued an orange (second-highest level on a three-tier scale) riverine flood alert for major watercourses in Trinidad and Tobago through early Oct. 7. and a yellow adverse weather warning across the whole country through Oct. 7. Officials could issue new warnings or evacuations in response to the situation in the coming hours.
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.
