Severe weather conditions are expected to continue for the next several hours according to the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service in its Bulletin No 2 issued at 12:30 p.m. today. These conditions are expected to bring an increase in rainfall and runoff from hilly areas. Residents and motorist are therefore advised to take the necessary precautions for flooding and landslides.
The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM) has been co-ordinating relief and emergency response through its First Responders, the Regional Corporations and the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service who have been out in the impacted areas assisting persons.
An aerial reconnaissance to assess the situation has been completed the initial assessments have indicated that several communities have been affected by flooding. The most affected are Matelot, Valencia, Cumaca, Manuel Congo, San Rafael, Vega de Orupuche in Trinidad and Mason Hall, Scarbrough, North and Windward Road in Tobago.
A situation report from the Regional Corporations and National Helicopter reflect the following:
- Several landslides in the Hollis Dam area. The road is impassable. Four persons working on the dam are marooned. Food and other supplies are being airlifted by the National Helicopters to these persons.
- Landslides at Commack Road, Valencia.
- Many homes in Fishing Pond to east of Sangre Grande are flooded.
- The Verga de Oropouche river over flowed its banks and numerous homes are under 3-4 feet of water.
- A small landslide has been reported at the west side of Toco
- Landslides between Matelot and Grand Rivere
- San Souci Village flooding by Government School.
- San Raphael Road between the village and La Horquetta are under water, houses and warehouses are affected. A large truck was stuck on road.
Relief operations have been pre activated. A shelter assessment has been conducted and shelters will be opened as recommended by the Regional Corporations. The NGO’s are on standby to provide assistance as needed. The ODPM has given priority to search and rescue and has mobilized its supporting agencies – The Defence Force, Fire Service and the Regional Corporations towards this effort.
The Ministry of Works and Transport, T&TEC and WASA are also responding to the flooding.
There have been no reports of fatalities or injuries.
A preliminary Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (DANA) will be completed in the shortest possible time frame.
The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management will continue to liaise with critical facilities, the essential services and the Meteorological Service for updates on the situation.
FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Paul Saunders
Executive Director
Tel: 1 (868) 640-1285
Email: info@nema.gov.tt
