Damaging floods and landslides hit Trinidad and Tobago after two weeks’ worth of rain in just 9 hours
Damaging flash flooding and landslides hit Trinidad and Tobago on Saturday, August 8, 2020, after 121 mm (5 inches) of rain in just 9 hours– half the country's average August rainfall of 250 mm (10 inches).
According to the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service, about 121 mm (5 inches) of rain fell in Caura in a period of 9 hours on Saturday, while North Oropouche recorded 93 mm (4 inches), La Reunion 81 mm (3 inches), and Moka 68 mm (2 inches).
This was about half of the country's average rainfall for the month of August, which is 250 mm (10 inches).
The agency warned of river levels nearing threshold values in some areas, mainly along the Caroni River basin.
Flooding also occurred in Diego Martin, where a road was blocked due to a landslide, prompting the regional disaster management unit to conduct clearing operations.
At least two houses were damaged by the deluge over the weekend.
Trinidad's Ministry of Rural Department and Local Government said one house collapsed in Lower Santa Cruz due to severe weather, while another was damaged in Calvary, Arima.
Strong winds accompanied the intense downpour, which toppled trees and caused other material damage.
As of Sunday, August 9, the flood alert has been discontinued as the situation showed significant improvement.
The meteorological service said river levels along the Caroni basin have declined, and the threat of Riverine flooding has decreased considerably.
The Met Office urged people to continue monitoring the latest weather updates.
Featured image credit: Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government
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