Heavy rains cause severe damage and displacement in several provinces

Santo Domingo.- The recent heavy rains have caused significant damage and displacement across several provinces, according to the latest report from the Emergency Operations Center (COE).

COE director Juan Manuel Méndez reported that the rains have affected 118 homes and temporarily displaced 590 people. Additionally, six aqueducts are out of service, leaving 61,256 users without drinking water. Firefighters also rescued an adult and a child with special needs who were trapped in a building in the Respaldo de Alma Rosa sector.

Currently, the COE has Greater Santo Domingo on red alert, with 10 provinces on yellow alert and 12 on green alert due to the risk of urban and rural flash floods, river, stream, and ravine flooding, and landslides. The yellow alert provinces include Monte Plata, La Altagracia, La Romana, San Cristóbal, Pedernales, Barahona, San Pedro de Macorís, Peravía, Hato Mayor, and El Seibo. The green alert regions are Espaillat, La Vega, Monsignor Nouel, Montecristi, San Jose de Ocoa, Azua, Bahoruco, Independencia, Santiago Rodriguez, Puerto Plata, La Vega, and Sanchez Ramirez.

Méndez emphasized the importance of the population following the instructions and recommendations of the authorities to avoid major tragedies. Authorities urge residents in affected areas to stay informed through official channels and take necessary precautions as more rain is forecasted in the coming hours.