Special for followers of codigopostalrd.net
Hurricane Melissa, now a Category 2 hurricane with winds of 165 km/h (105 mph), is located 520 km (310 miles) west-southwest of Bermuda, moving northeast at 50 km/h (30 mph) and away from the region. However, its associated trough continues to generate:
Scattered showers and thunderstorms with gusty winds, especially in the afternoon, in provinces such as El Seibo, Hato Mayor, La Vega, Azua, San Juan, Santiago, and the border region.
High temperatures of 31-33°C (88-91°F), lows of 21-23°C (70-73°F).
Marine warnings include dangerous waves and winds along the Caribbean and Atlantic coasts; caution is advised for small craft and swimmers (river currents).
The Dominican Institute of Meteorology (INDOMET) and the Emergency Operations Center (COE) maintain 9 provinces under alert/warning for risks of urban/rural flooding, river overflows and landslides:
Significant flooding: In Santiago de los Caballeros (severe flooding), Puerto Plata, Monte Cristi, Cibao, Sabana Larga (San José de Ocoa), and the south. Streets turned into rivers, vehicles stranded.
At least 1 death in the Dominican Republic; Caribbean total ~30-50 (most in Haiti 23-40, Jamaica ~4).
Agricultural damage: Losses in coffee plantations in the south (ripe beans fallen).
Other: Possible power outages, property damage; preventive evacuations in 22 provinces.
Persistent risk of landslides in the mountains and further flooding until Saturday (new tropical wave). Emergency Operations Center (COE) on alert; brigades clearing streams (e.g., Las Vacas, Ocoa).
US aid (rescue teams) and Airbnb offering emergency shelter. Thousands temporarily cut off in the Caribbean.
Estimated damages in the billions regionally. Dominican Republic affected in tourism and agriculture. Focus on the south and Cibao regions; monitoring through the weekend.
The Dominican Republic avoided a catastrophic direct impact (unlike Category 5 Jamaica or Haiti) thanks to Melissa’s peripheral path, but the indirect effects (torrential rains) highlight climate vulnerability.
Hurricane season intensified by climate change (warmer oceans = more powerful storms).
Lessons learned include strengthening urban drainage systems, earthquake/hurricane-resistant infrastructure, evacuation plans, and reforestation. Preparedness saved lives.
Positive forecast: Conditions improve Sunday; focus on resilience for 2025-2026.
Recommendations: Avoid risk zones, follow @INDOMET_RDO and @coeRD on social media. Stay safe!
