The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM), as the lead coordinator of disaster management, remains in contact with all first responder agencies (the Municipal Corporations of the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government (MORDLG), TT Fire Service, TT Defence Force, TT Police Service, Emergency Support Functions of the National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) and Strategic Services Agency–Fusion Centre) to assist with recovery efforts (if called upon) as a result of the inclement weather experienced over the weekend.
The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service’s (TTMS) published Flood Bulletin Number 6 and Rough Seas Bulletin Number 6, yesterday (Monday 1st January, 2018). TTMS continues to advise the public that the Riverine Flood Alert and Rough Seas Bulletins are still in effect until further amended.While weather conditions have stabilized, the Flood Bulletin #6 is still in effect and persons in low lying or flood prone areas are still asked to be vigilant.
TTMS indicated that sea conditions in open waters around Trinidad and Tobago continue to be moderate to rough with wave heights expected to reach up to 2.5 metres and occasionally 3.0 metres. While wave heights will slowly decrease, spring tides are in effect and sea conditions will continue to be disturbed and exacerbated during high tide. Small craft operators, sea bathers and other marine interests are advised to exercise extra caution in any sea related activities. The Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government (MORDLG) has reported to the ODPM that they remain in full control of the situation and recovery works will continue throughout the day.
The ODPM maintains consistent communication with the MORDLG’s Chief Disaster Management Coordinator and continues to activate its mechanism, the National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) is currently at Level One to render support if requested. All Emergency Support Functions of the NEOC remain on standby. The MORDLG will provide further updates on passable and impassable roads, in accordance with their assessment teams on the field in impacted areas, please be guided accordingly.
Reports to the ODPM indicate that the following roadways are currently impassable:
The North Coast Road, Trinidad remains closed to the general public. However, the roadway will be opened to residents of the area. The Chief Engineer of the San Juan/Laventille Corporation has confirmed that four excavators are currently on the site clearing the landslide. The Cedar Grove area, Mayaro Trinidad continues to be affected by flood waters, making some roadways impassable to most vehicles. Flood waters have subsided in most previously affected areas. However, vulnerable citizens and the general public are advised to still ensure they follow these safety tips:
1) Do not walk/drive through flood waters;
2) Be cautious when walking/driving along hillsides or landslide-prone areas;
3) Pay attention to regular updates on all media for any changes in the weather conditions;
4) Be prepared and maintain your Family Emergency Kit;
5) Contact your respective Disaster Management Unit if impacted and in need of assistance (see attached).
The ODPM continues to work closely with the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government to lend resources and other support as we continue recovery efforts in affected communities.