Intense showers and thunderstorms began across 5.00am Wednesday morning across parts of Central and Eastern Tobago, with the Adverse Weather Alert (Yellow Level) going into effect at 6.00am on Wednesday.
Though some early to mid-morning sunshine may have lulled some Trinidadians into thinking the adverse weather would not materialize, by the late morning, thunderstorms began across the island.
Tobago’s flooding and landslides
According to reports from the Tobago Emergency Management Agency (TEMA), various reports of incidents have been reported in villages around Tobago mainly Moriah, Mason Hall, Runnemede and areas on Northside Road.
A landslide occurred at Broad Road, Moriah on the Northside Road, which has completely blocked and rendered the roadway impassable Wednesday morning. It was subsequently cleared by Tobago’s Division of Infrastructure, Quarries, and Environment (DIQE).
Another landslide severely damaged a home at the Lady Smith Road, Moriah, Tobago.
Flash flooding was also reported across Moriah, in the vicinity of Paige Gully.
Flooding across Southern, Western Trinidad
Intense thunderstorms developed across South Trinidad during the late morning into the afternoon yesterday and slowly moved towards the northwest.
Heavy rainfall caused flooding in Gasparillo, Union Hall, Tarouba, and environs.
Images circulated of a flooded Brian Lara Cricket Academy and Stadium’s field on social media.
Due to staff working promptly, the field was expediently drained but remained saturated.
Street flooding was also reported along Jerningham Railway Road, Cunupia as well as parts of Longdenville and Chaguanas in West-Central Trinidad.
The usual flood-prone areas of Port of Spain were not spared, with street flooding along St Vincent Street, Independence Square and Ariapita Avenue and environs as of Wednesday afternoon.
Adverse weather alert continues
The Adverse Weather Alert (Yellow Level) from the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service continues through 6.00pm today, as periods of showers and thunderstorms are forecast to affect both islands. This activity is due to the Intertropical Convergence Zone remaining across the region.
Street and flash flooding are possible in heavy showers and thunderstorms. Frequent lightning is also possible, capable of causing localized power outages.
Landslides in elevated areas are possible due to saturated soils. Gusty winds may accompany intense showers or thunderstorms, capable of downing trees and power lines.
