Over the last 48 hours, rainfall accumulations of between 75 and 200 millimeters have fallen across Northern Trinidad, primarily in the Caroni River Basin. As a result, major rivers across Trinidad have risen at a significant rate, with the Manuel Congo River approaching threshold levels. Given that additional rainfall is forecasted, a Riverine Flood Alert has been issued for the Caroni River, with severe impacts possible.
What you need to know
— What has happened: Over the last 48 hours, between 75 and 200 millimeters of rain fell across parts of Northern Trinidad, with totals ranging from 25 to 100 millimeters elsewhere across both islands.
— What to expect: Additional rainfall is forecast on Thursday and Friday on mainly saturated soils. Riverine flooding, according to the TTMS, is possible over the next 24 hours, primarily along the Caroni River and its tributaries. Other major rivers, including the North and South Oropouche, are rising at relatively low rates, but are also being closely monitored.
Latest Alerts
Caroni River Hits “Critical Threshold” – Riverine Flood Alert Upgraded To Orange
Caroni River Basin Under Riverine Flood Alert
Trinidad and Tobago is NOT under any tropical storm or hurricane threat, watch, or warning at this time.
The Riverine Flood Alert
The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service issued a Riverine Flood Alert (Yellow Level) on Wednesday, June 11th, 2025, at 6:27 PM. The alert went into effect for the Caroni River Basin at 6:30 PM and remains in effect through 6:00 PM Thursday, June 12th, 2025.
Trinidad and Tobago is not under any tropical storm watch or warning at this time.
“Ongoing rainfall activity compounded with previous rainfall accumulations from earlier today has led to major river levels rising at significant rates, especially at points along the Caroni River. The Manuel Congo River is also approaching critical thresholds. Periods of rainfall are expected to continue over the next 24 hours, resulting in further elevation of these river levels. As a result, there is now a severe risk to public safety, livelihood, and property in communities surrounding these rivers. Other major rivers, including the North and South Oropouche, are rising at relatively low rates, but are also being closely monitored. Note that run-off will be slow at high tide, which will be at 4:00 a.m. and 5:26 p.m.(Thu 12th June 2025), according to the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service. This “alert” status takes into account the possibility of the event occurring. This riverine flood event is possible.
The color of the alert indicates the severity of the event and its likelihood of occurring. Currently, the alert level is Yellow. This means that the hazard is possible, and you should be aware of the potential impacts of street, flash, and riverine flooding in your area. Severe impacts are expected.
For a severe Riverine Flood Alert, there is a potential for loss of life or serious injuries; physical defenses are necessary, significant losses are possible in confined areas, income-earning activities are impossible for several days, and several communities are affected, requiring external help for recovery.
The public should monitor weather conditions and river levels before venturing out. Avoid areas with floodwaters, monitor updates from official sources, and plan safety measures, including emergency supplies of food and water. Follow the instructions of government officials.
