The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service (TTMS) has issued a Riverine Flood Alert #1 – Orange Level for communities located along Trinidad’s main river courses and associated tributaries, for the period Thursday 15th November, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. to Friday 16th November, 2018 at 6:00 p.m.
Orange level means that you should prepare to safeguard yourself and your property.
The TTMS has advised that river levels are currently near threshold values in some parts, especially along the Caroni river basin and minor flooding has commenced in certain regions as well. Rainfall is still in the forecast and the river levels are gradually rising which can become exacerbated around high tide times. Therefore, a high risk to public safety, livelihoods and property exists in these areas. For further information on the riverine flood alert visit http://www.metoffice.gov.tt/early_warning.
The Adverse Weather Alert is still in effect until Thursday 15th November, 2018 at 8:00 pm.
Persons residing, traversing or working in flood prone areas are urged to be extra vigilant and to take the necessary actions to preserve life and property. Be alert for rising river levels and possible over-spill. Do not take unnecessary risks. Avoid intentionally walking or driving through flood waters.
The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM) would like residents and visitors to ‘Get Ready and Stay Ready’ by implementing the following safety measures:
1. Place sandbags around your property, especially if your area or property has a history of flooding;
2. Cover internal drainage holes with sandbags e.g. toilet, shower, bath and floor drains to stop backflow of flood waters;
3. Move valuables to higher ground if possible;
4. Lifting curtains, rugs and bedding, and removing items from low cupboards may be necessary, especially if your area or property has a history of flooding;
5. After heavy rainfall, stay inside until water levels have subsided;
6. Do not walk, play or drive through flood waters of unknown depth and current;
7. Be cautious when walking /driving along hillsides or landslide-prone areas;
8. If impacted by the adverse weather, please contact your Municipal Corporation or the Tobago Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) through its toll-free hotline numbers.
Citizens should continue to monitor the website and social media profiles of the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service and the ODPM for weather forecasts, alerts, warnings and cancellations. Visit www.metoffice.gov.tt or wwww.odpm.gov.tt.
WE WISH TO UNDERSCORE THAT TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO IS NOT CURRENTLY UNDER ANY TROPICAL STORM OR HURRICANE THREAT, WATCH OR WARNING.
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