28 Nov 2022 | 06:01 AM UTC
Trinidad and Tobago: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across Trinidad as of early Nov. 28 /update 1
Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across Trinidad, Trinidad and Tobago, as of early Nov. 28. Further adverse weather forecast.
Event
Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across parts of Trinidad as of early Nov. 28. Heavy rainfall since Nov. 17 has resulted in flooding, landslides, and fallen trees across the country. The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service has issued a orange (middle level on a three-tier scale) adverse weather alert across the country; periods of heavy rain and thunderstorms are forecast.
Authorities have warned that waterways are nearing their capacity, increasing the likelihood of floods. Several rivers, including the Caroni River, are at dangerously high levels. Further downpours could trigger additional flooding in the coming days and hamper ongoing recovery efforts.
Manzanilla Mayaro Road partially collapsed Nov. 23; the road remains closed with parts of Mayaro cut off. Reports indicate that major flooding is ongoing in Saint Helena, Valsayn, and Saint Augustine South; several roads are impassable. Authorities evacuated 20 families in the Tunapuna-Piarco Region. Landslides also occurred across the country, with a major landslide on Paria Main Road. An emergency shelter is located at the Plum Mitan Community Center. All public schools will be closed Nov. 28 and are scheduled to reopen Nov. 29.
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 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 possible 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.
