Government prepares preventive measures as Tropical Storm Melissa approaches

Santo Domingo.- Minister of the Presidency José Ignacio Paliza led a high-level meeting this Tuesday with the Emergency Operations Center (COE) and other government institutions to coordinate preventive actions in response to the potential impacts of Tropical Storm Melissa, which is currently influencing weather conditions across the Dominican Republic.

The session focused on reviewing contingency plans and ensuring a unified and timely response in case the storm intensifies. Paliza noted that while the trajectory of the system remains uncertain, the government must be ready for all possible scenarios. He stated that the coordinated plans from each institution will be presented to President Luis Abinader later in the day, who may announce special measures depending on the storm’s development.

Following the meeting, the COE raised the alert level for 14 provinces to yellow—including Santo Domingo, the National District, La Vega, San Cristóbal, and Barahona—while eight others remain on green alert. The National Meteorology Institute (INDOMET) forecast up to 300 millimeters of rain in the coming hours, warning of possible flooding and landslides. Authorities urged citizens, particularly those along the southern coast, to stay informed through official bulletins and follow safety recommendations as institutions remain on permanent watch to safeguard lives and property.