Dominican Republic returns to normal as Abinader lifts Hurricane Melissa restrictions

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader announced the lifting of preventive measures across most of the Dominican Republic after Hurricane Melissa moved away from the country, allowing conditions to gradually return to normal. Only four provinces — Barahona, Pedernales, Bahoruco, and Independencia — remain under red alert, as they continue to face risks associated with the hurricane’s indirect effects.

Accompanied by Vice President Raquel Peña, Abinader highlighted that electricity generation has remained stable at 98%, ensuring continuity of essential services and speeding up recovery efforts. He thanked citizens for their cooperation and adherence to safety protocols, which helped minimize damage. Drinking water services are being restored through coordinated efforts by INAPA and CAASD, although forecasts still indicate scattered rainfall in some areas. The president also pledged support for vulnerable families and informal workers affected by the storm.

According to COE director General Juan Manuel Méndez, the red alert remains in effect for the four southern provinces, while 13 provinces and the National District are on yellow alert and 13 others on green alert. In red alert areas, work and school activities remain suspended, while other provinces may resume normal operations under guidelines from the Ministries of Education, Public Administration, and Labor.

Preliminary damage reports show 735 homes affected and 3,765 people displaced, with four shelters still housing 77 individuals and 48 communities cut off by flooding. In addition, 51 water systems were affected, leaving over 540,000 users without service, and several roadways, bridges, and rural paths suffered damage now under repair by the Ministry of Public Works.