Landslides across Dominica

Roseau.

Approximately 30 landslides were  reported as heavy rain associated with a trough system, pounded Dominica between April 17 and 20, the Office of Disaster Management (ODM) has said.

“The Ministry of Public Works, Infrastructure and Ports assessed approximately thirty landslides across the island including in the Southern Community of Petite Savanne, Dubique, the road to Good Hope and Petite Soufriere, the Melville Hall to Pont Casse and Pont Casse to East Coast villages and on the Emerald Pool to Castle Bruce area,” acting National Disaster Coordinator, Don Corriette, told the media  late last night.

Corriette said that flooding occurred in several communities across the island rendering roads impassable.

“All roads have been re-opened with exclusion of the major damage to the Pont Casse road leading to the east of the island,” he stated

Corriette said roads, tourism infrastructure and utilities suffered major damage. However, there are minor reports of damage to fishers and residents in rural areas due to flooding, he stated.

“Two families were evacuated in the community of Dubique due to flood waters entering their homes when a landslide and large tree fell into the Dubique River,” he said.

Corriette is urging the public to stay away from the collapsed area in Pont Casse. “It is unsafe and an offence to enter beyond the area which has been officially cordoned off by the police. The area remains precarious and poses high risks to anyone who chooses to walk or pass near the edge of the broken road,” he said.flooding5-300x225-4