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Riverine Flood Alert #2 – Orange Level

Countries
Trinidad and Tobago
Sources
Govt. Trinidad and Tobago
Publication date
Origin
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The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service (TTMS) has issued a Riverine Flood Alert #2 – Orange Level for communities located along Trinidad’s main river courses (in particular, Caroni and Oropouche) and their associated tributaries for the period Thursday 15th November, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. to Saturday 17th November, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. Orange level means that you should prepare to safeguard yourself and your property.

The TTMS has advised that many areas of central and southern Trinidad are still under flood waters. Data from the Water Resources Agency (WRA) shows that river levels are now gradually decreasing, but still above threshold levels. Additional rainfall and tidal fluctuations can slow the recession of flood waters. For further information on the riverine flood alert visit http://www.metoffice.gov.tt/early_warning.

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM) reminds all persons residing, traversing or working in flood-prone areas to be extra vigilant and to take the necessary actions to preserve life and property. Persons should monitor weather conditions and river levels. Avoid intentionally wading or driving through flood waters.

Floodwaters may carry silt, raw sewage, and microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and parasites. These can make food unsafe and cause diseases. Thus, persons are advised to protect themselves and family members while engaging in clean-up activities.

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM) would like residents and visitors to ‘Get Ready and Stay Ready’ by implementing the following safety measures:

Place sandbags around your property;
Cover internal drainage holes with sandbags, e.g. toilet, shower, bath and floor drains to stop backflow of flood waters;
Move valuables to higher ground if possible;
Lifting curtains, rugs and bedding, and removing items from low cupboards may be necessary, especially if your area or property has a history of flooding;
After heavy rainfall, stay inside until water levels have subsided;
Do not wade, play or drive through flood waters of unknown depth and current;
If you must wade through a flood, use a stick to determine the firmness of the ground, as well as the depth of the water around you;
Wear personal protective equipment, including rubber boots, rubber gloves and goggles during clean-up of affected areas. Wear closed-toe shoes, long-sleeves and full-length pants;
Keep children and pets out of the affected area until clean-up has been completed;
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces (such as flooring, concrete, moulding, wood and metal furniture, countertops, appliances, sinks and other plumbing fixtures) with hot water and household bleach solution;
After completing the clean-up, wash your hands properly with soap and clean water;
Wash all clothes worn during the clean-up in hot water and detergent. These clothes should be washed separately from uncontaminated clothes and linens.

Citizens should continue to monitor the website and social media profiles of the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service and the ODPM for weather forecasts, alerts, warnings and cancellations. Visit www.metoffice.gov.tt or www.odpm.gov.ttt.

WE WISH TO UNDERSCORE THAT TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO IS NOT CURRENTLY UNDER ANY TROPICAL STORM OR HURRICANE THREAT, WATCH OR WARNING.