The Caroni, North Oropouche, and South Oropouche Rivers are reaching threshold levels, with flooding already ongoing in low-lying areas near some parts of these rivers.
What you need to know
— What has happened: Over the last 72 hours, between 50 and 150 millimeters of rain fell across parts of Trinidad and Tobago associated with ITCZ, a deep-layered trough system, and with another tropical wave on the approach. Additional rainfall accumulations between 25 and 75 millimeters with isolated totals exceeding 100 millimeters are forecast through the next 48 hours.
— What to expect: Riverine flooding is expected, particularly for smaller water courses and tributaries to major rivers. Runoff will be slowed by spring tides which end on Friday, October 28th, 2022.
Latest Alerts
Flooding Continues To Subside As Riverine Flood Alert Discontinued
Active ITCZ Forecast To Affect T&T
The Riverine Flood Alert
The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service issued a Riverine Flood Alert on Thursday at 7:57 PM. The alert went into effect for Trinidad from 8:00 PM Thursday, October 27th, 2022, and remains in effect through 8:00 PM Saturday, October 29th, 2022
Trinidad and Tobago is not under any tropical storm watch or warning at this time.
“River levels are currently near threshold values in some parts, especially along the Caroni River and South Oropouche basin, with flooding ongoing in some areas along these rivers. Expected rainfall overnight can increase the volume of already overwhelmed water courses, and overspilling of banks is expected,” according to the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service. This “alert” status takes into account the possibility of the event occurring. This riverine flood event has been observed.
The color of the alert indicates the severity of the event and the probability of the event occurring. Currently, the alert level is Orange. This means that the hazard has been observed, and you need to be aware of the impacts of street, flash, and riverine flooding in your area. Severe impacts are expected.
For a severe Riverine Flood Alert, there is the potential for a loss of a single life or serious injuries; physical defenses are needed, major losses are possible in confined areas, income earning is impossible for several days, and several communities are affected where external help is needed for recovery.
The public should finalize preparations to protect lives, livelihoods, and property, activate your safety plan, secure food, water, and medicine for at least 7 days in waterproof containers, and protect important assets and documents. Do not take unnecessary risks. Follow the instructions of government officials. Monitor official sources for information
