Flooding in the Dominican Republic

As of 20 November, heavy rains and electric storms resulted in the bursting of the banks of the Yaque del Norte and Yuna rivers, as well as their tributaries, causing flooding in the region of El Cibao in the north of the Dominican Republic. The floods particularly affected housing, and some 47,270 people were evacuated.

At the same time, damage was incurred to agriculture and fishing and, given that aqueducts in the area are all affected, potable water is in short supply. In total, the
flooding has affected some 65,000 people. According to the national emergency commission, the most affected communities are in the provinces of Santiago, Montecristi, Valverde and Duarte, as follows: Ranchadero, Jobo Corcobado, Güayubín, Palo Verde, Castañuelas, Los Bateyes, La Cruz, Higüero, Isabel, El Puente, Villa Riva and the area referred to as "Lower Yuna".

On 26 November, 13,000 people were estimated to be in difficulty, of whom 5,000 families (25,000 people) are considered to be critically affected. A red alert status has been maintained for the region between Santiago and Montecristi and there are fears that the two dams in the area: the Monción and Hatillo may burst.

Outbreaks of illnesses are starting to occur, mostly diarrhoea, fever and skin rashes, and there are major concerns relating to health given that water supplies have been contaminated.