Torrential downpours caused by a tropical storm have brought havoc to the Dominican Republic, leading to widespread flash flooding and tragic consequences. As a result of the severe weather conditions, a highway wall in Santo Domingo collapsed, trapping a vehicle underneath. This harrowing incident, captured on video, exemplifies the dangers posed by the torrential rain.
The Dominican Republic was already grappling with major flooding in its capital city, Santo Domingo, when the tropical storm made landfall. The storm, classified as a potential tropical cyclone, unleashed relentless rainfall across Cuba, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic. The impact was catastrophic, leading to numerous reports of fatalities and significant damage.
Local media and officials have reported a staggering death toll, with at least 20 lives lost since the start of the storm. The Dominican Republic Department of Civil Defense shared a distressing video on social media, showing a car crushed by the collapsed highway tunnel wall during the height of the flooding. Rescue efforts were immediately launched to free any potential survivors trapped inside the vehicle.
Tragically, bodies were later discovered beneath the debris. The fire department confirmed that nine individuals lost their lives when the flooding left several vehicles stranded on 27 de Febrero Avenue. Search and rescue teams have been dispatched to the southwest province of Barahona in a desperate bid to locate five missing persons.
Despite the best efforts of emergency operations managers, who issued alerts for multiple provinces, the situation remains precarious. The U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic declared a red alert for eight provinces and a yellow alert for 17 provinces due to the heavy rainfall caused by the tropical storm. The country is bracing for further rain and potential flooding, which is expected to persist until Monday. The ongoing threat of flash flooding poses a significant risk to the well-being and safety of citizens.
While efforts are being made to rescue and assist those affected by the flash flooding, it is important for individuals to prioritize their safety and heed the advice of local authorities. Staying informed about weather updates, evacuation orders, and emergency assistance channels is crucial during these challenging times. Above all, the collective solidarity and resilience of the Dominican people will play a crucial role in overcoming this natural disaster and rebuilding their communities.
FAQs:
1. What caused the flash flooding in the Dominican Republic?
The flash flooding was triggered by heavy rainfall from a tropical storm that passed through the region.
2. How many deaths have been reported so far?
At least 20 deaths have been reported by local media and officials since the start of the storm.
3. Was anyone trapped in the vehicle under the collapsed wall?
Rescue efforts were underway to free any potential survivors trapped inside the vehicle, but unfortunately, bodies were later discovered beneath the debris.
4. Are there still people missing?
Search and rescue teams have been deployed to locate five missing individuals in the southwest province of Barahona.
5. What alerts have been issued by emergency operations managers?
A red alert was issued for eight provinces, and a yellow alert was issued for 17 provinces due to heavy rainfall from the tropical storm.
Sources:
– Dominican Republic Department of Civil Defense: [Link to be added]
– U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic: [Link to be added]