More flooding rainfall remains in Trinidad and Tobago's forecast, prompting the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service (TTMS) to extend both alerts currently in effect until 8:00 PM Thursday.
The Adverse Weather Alert (Yellow Level) has been in effect for Trinidad, Tobago and surrounding marine areas since 2:00 PM Tuesday. In the latest update of the alert, the Met Office says, "Conditions this evening and overnight are expected to be generally settled apart from a few intervals of showers and the odd thunderstorm. The most intense activity will likely remain offshore at times. However, periods of rain and/or showers of varying intensities are still expected, especially from late morning/early afternoon tomorrow (Thursday, 24th November)."
The TTMS also warns, "There is a 60 - 70% (medium-high) chance of heavy showers and thunderstorms that can produce intense rainfall above 25 mm. The land is very saturated, so the risk of street/flash flooding, localized ponding and landslides/landslips will be higher. Gusty winds in excess of 55 km/h may be experienced, especially in the vicinity of heavy showers/thunderstorms."
As flooding continues across the country, reported mainly across parts of eastern Trinidad along the Manzanilla-Mayaro Road and across both the North Oropouche and Caroni River Basins, the Riverine Flood Alert (Yellow Level) was both extended and expanded. It now covers the North Oropouche River Basin, the Caroni River Basin, as well as surrounding tributaries.
In their third update of the Riverine Flood Alert, the TTMS explained, "After today's rainfall event, river levels along the Caroni and North Oropouche Rivers continue to rise and are currently above 80%, with El Carmen being at a critical level of 93%. Weather conditions are expected to settle during the night. However, occasional intervals of heavy showers are still likely thereafter. This additional rainfall can keep the river levels elevated, so there remains a moderate risk to public safety, livelihood and property."
Both alerts indicate moderate severity. This means there is the potential for possible injuries, with behavioural changes required to ensure safety. There may be minor property damage, with income-earning temporarily disrupted, and a couple of communities may be affected.
The Met Office advises the public to monitor weather conditions and river levels before venturing out, avoid areas with flood water, monitor updates from official sources, plan safety measures, including emergency supplies of food and water, not take unnecessary risks and follow the instructions of government officials.
