In a tragic turn of events, the Dominican Republic is grappling with the aftermath of a storm that claimed the lives of at least 21 people. The calamity unfolded as heavy rains swept through the nation over the weekend, prompting the displacement of thousands of residents, according to official reports.
The capital, Santo Domingo, became a scene of sorrow as nine individuals lost their lives when a highway tunnel wall collapsed due to the torrential rain, leading authorities to launch a comprehensive investigation. More than 13,000 people were forced to evacuate to secure areas in the wake of the downpours.
The Emergency Operations Center (COE) has revealed a grim picture of the widespread devastation, citing flooded homes, power outages, and damaged bridges and roads. Among the victims, three children tragically lost their lives. President Luis Abinader declared this unprecedented weather event as the “largest rainfall event ever” in the country’s history, acknowledging the relentless storms over the past 48 hours.
Disturbing footage circulating on social media portrays torrents of water inundating streets and sweeping away vehicles in a nation battered by relentless rainfall. The COE reported that more than 2,500 people were rescued, and over 2,600 homes were affected by the storm. As of Sunday afternoon, 45 communities were without communication, further complicating the ongoing emergency response.
The torrential rainfall, stemming from a tropical depression, is anticipated to persist across parts of the country into Monday, as indicated by the US embassy. The majority of the nation’s 32 provinces remain under red and yellow weather alerts, reflecting the severity of the situation.
President Abinader announced the suspension of classes until Wednesday, emphasizing the need to evaluate affected schools and ensure the safety of students. Expressing his deep shock at the loss of life, he took to social media, formerly known as X, pledging unconditional support to all those impacted by this emergency.
Tragically, among the casualties were four US nationals, with an additional three hailing from neighboring Haiti, according to AFP news agency. As the Dominican Republic mourns the lives lost, the nation faces the daunting task of recovery in the aftermath of this devastating storm.
