Caribbean Braces for Heavy Rainfall and Hurricanes: Puerto Rico Declares Emergency
Heavy rainfall and hurricanes are a recurring threat in the Caribbean, particularly between June and November. Recent events highlight the region's vulnerability, with Puerto Rico declaring a state of emergency due to intense rain that caused two deaths and significant damage.
The Caribbean's warm ocean waters and moist air create ideal conditions for hurricanes, which are most frequent during summer and fall. However, heavy rainfalls can be just as disruptive, often leading to severe urban flooding, road blockages, and destruction of homes. Several cities across the Caribbean islands have suffered from these intense rains, including Havana (Cuba), Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic), San Juan (Puerto Rico), and Port-au-Prince (Haiti).
In 2024, Puerto Rico experienced a heavy downpour lasting over two days, flooding streets, making rivers overflow, and trapping people on roofs. Agriculture was also significantly affected. The U.S. Virgin Islands have faced power outages, school closures, and business shutdowns due to heavy rains. Other islands like Grenada, Barbados, Belize, and the Virgin Islands have also experienced issues from intense rains and flooding.
Given the recurring nature of these events, it's crucial for travelers to stay alert for rain and flood warnings, avoid outdoor activities in high-risk areas, and keep essentials like rain jackets, waterproof bags, extra cash, and charged devices. Knowing what to do in case of a natural disaster during a Caribbean vacation can help ensure safety and preparedness.
