Tropical Storm Melissa Causes Deadly Flooding in Dominican Republic’s Santo Domingo
Heavy rains from Tropical Storm Melissa devastate parts of Santo Domingo, forcing evacuations and causing widespread damage across the Dominican Republic.
Severe Flooding in Santo Domingo as Tropical Storm Melissa Strikes
Heavy rainfall from Tropical Storm Melissa has caused severe flooding in the Herrera sector of Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic. Overflowing creeks and torrential downpours have damaged dozens of homes, forced mass evacuations, and left more than 500,000 residents without access to clean water, according to local authorities.
Fatalities and Massive Infrastructure Damage Reported
Officials confirmed one death as emergency teams continue rescue operations across the affected neighborhoods. Streets have turned into rivers, vehicles have been swept away, and electricity outages are being reported in several districts of Greater Santo Domingo.
The Dominican Civil Defense and National Meteorological Office (ONAMET) have issued red alerts for flash flooding and landslides across the southern and central regions.
Catastrophic Risks Loom for Hispaniola
Meteorologists warn that Tropical Storm Melissa still poses catastrophic risks for the island of Hispaniola, shared by the Dominican Republic and Haiti. With saturated ground and continuing rainfall, the threat of landslides and river flooding remains extremely high in mountainous terrain.
Government Response and Evacuations Underway
Emergency shelters have been opened across Santo Domingo and neighboring provinces, providing refuge for families displaced by the storm. The National Water Institute (INAPA) announced disruptions to water service due to contamination and infrastructure damage caused by overflowing rivers and creeks.
Forecast: Melissa May Strengthen Again
Forecasters at the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and Caribbean Meteorological Organization are monitoring Melissa’s path as it continues west-northwest, with potential for re-strengthening once it moves away from Hispaniola. Residents in Haiti, eastern Cuba, and the Turks and Caicos Islands are advised to stay alert for worsening weather conditions.
