Heavy rains and floods hit Central

AREAS in Chaguanas, Couva, Tabaquite and Talparo were negatively affected by yesterday afternoon’s heavy downpour on the eve of Divali. In the aftermath of the bad weather, Local Government Minister Khadijah Ameen urged citizens to exercise vigilance as the adverse weather alert remains in effect. It’s expected to end around 10 p.m. tonight. In a release yesterday Ameen gave the country the assurance all municipal corporations’ Disaster Management Units (DMUs) across the 14 corporations were on full alert and ready to respond in the event of an emergency. “The Disaster Management Units (DMUs) have received reports of flooding in areas within the Chaguanas Borough Corporation (CBC) and the Couva/Tabaquite/Talparo Regional Corporation (CTTRC). Response teams in these areas have been mobilised and are actively assisting affected communities,” she said. She added: “In the CBC DMU, motorists with low vehicles are especially cautioned to avoid the following locations: like corner of Jerningham Junction Road and Ackbar Road and John Peter Road West and surrounding areas.” Ameen also said: “Due to heavy afternoon showers, the CTTRC DMU has also received reports of street flooding in the following areas-Korea Village, Orange Field Road, Wyaby Road, Samson Street, Preysal Crown Trace and Sections of Perseverance Road from Chin’s Grocery to Roops Junction. Please note that there are incidents of residential flooding in some of these areas.” She added: “The DMU is currently liaising with affected residents who have reached out through councillors and the hotline number for assistance. While most of the flooding has been reported as flash flooding and water has already dissipated, the public is urged to remain on high alert, particularly in areas prone to recurrent flooding. At this time, available data show that river levels remain safe and are being closely monitored.” Ameen stressed that safety of citizens is top priority. “Please take all necessary precautions and stay informed as the weather system continues to affect us,” she added. Citizens are urged to: • Stay tuned to official weather updates. • Secure loose outdoor items and clear drains. • Avoid flooded areas and do not attempt to cross flowing water. • Keep emergency contacts nearby and follow evacuation advice if issued. • Residents in flood- and landslide-prone areas should remain especially vigilant. Citizens were advised to contact their respective DMU for assistance. Heartbreaking and distressing Responding to the affected burgesses, Chaguanas Mayor Faaiq Mohammed gave them the assurance, “Your borough stands with you.” In a release yesterday, he said: “Many areas are facing street flooding, and our residents are enduring the heartbreak of seeing water rise around their homes and communities. My heart goes out to every family affected.” He added: “I know how distressing it is to watch the place you call home fill with water, to worry about safety, and to wonder what comes next.” He also shared some practical advice, and said: “If your home has been impacted by flooding, contact our Disaster Management Unit at 790-5777. You can also send a video or photo of the situation so we can respond quickly and get help where it’s needed most. To everyone on the roads, please drive carefully and avoid flooded areas. The water will subside soon.” He issued a call to citizens: “Continue to look out for one another, as we always do in Chaguanas. Together, we’ll recover!”