In its daily forecast, the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Services has indicated that both islands will be variably cloudy with the chance of isolated showers which may give rise to increased showery activity and thundershowers by late morning into early afternoon. Based on the heavy rainfall and continued run off into the rivers, there is the strong possibility that water levels may rise once more. In light of this, the Caroni River continues to be monitored at this time. Consequently, residents who live in the areas that lie in the Caroni River Basin (such as St Helena, Kelly Village, Frederick Settlement, La Paille and Las Lomas) must remain vigilant and cautious at this time.

To treat with the possibility of over spilling of river courses, the two relief shelters remain activated and furnished to treat with residents who may be impacted by the over spilling of these rivers. These shelters are the Eastern Regional Sporting Complex (Tacarigua) and the Tunapuna Government Secondary School.

Additionally, affected persons are asked to walk with:-

• Complete change of clothes
• Extra pair of shoes
• Extra socks
• Extra underwear
• Toothbrush, deodorant, towel and bath soaps
• Important documents such as passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate, driver’s licence, wills and deeds in a sealed plastic bag
• Personal medication

The ODPM reminds citizens that the emergency relief shelters will only provide the following:

• Food, water and bedding (cots, mattresses and blankets)

Some additional safety tips are:-

• Stay calm but remain vigilant and cautious at this time
• Secure valuables and all important documents in waterproof containers or bags
• Elevate all appliances and valuable items
• Turn off all utilities such as electricity, gas and water at the main switches. Do not touch electrical equipment
• Secure all pets and livestock
• Do not walk / drive through flood waters unless absolutely necessary
• Park vehicles in places that will not become easily inundated
• Be aware of possible landslides and landslips.

Persons are reminded that if they have been impacted by flooding, they must first contact their municipal corporation or the ODPM at 800 ODPM (6376).

The ODPM, as the coordinator and manager of emergencies has alerted the first responder agencies (Municipal Corporations, the TT Fire Service and TT Defence Force) to render continued assistance as required. The National Emergency Operations Centre of the ODPM remains activated to coordinate immediate relief and response as necessary.

Please note that Trinidad and Tobago is NOT under any Tropical Storm threat, Watch or Warning.

Contact:
Public Information Specialist
Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management
1 868 640 1285 /486 8251/ publicinformation@odpm.gov.tt