Nationwide Rain Alert in the Dominican Republic: Prepare for Heavy Rainfall Across the Country

Dominican Republic Issues Alerts for 24 Provinces as tropical Storm Melissa Approaches

Published: October 22, 2025 at 7:15 PM

The Emergency Operations Center (COE) of the Dominican Republic has escalated alerts to encompass 24 provinces, responding to persistent rainfall linked to the outer bands of Tropical Storm Melissa. The heightened state of alert aims to safeguard residents against potential hazards, including flooding and landslides.

Currently, the National District and 17 provinces are under a yellow alert, while an additional six provinces are designated as green alerts. These classifications indicate varying levels of risk and preparedness.

Provinces Under Alert

The provinces currently under a yellow alert include La Vega, San Pedro de Macorís, San juan, Maria Trinidad Sanchez, Samaná, Santo Domingo, Peravia, Azua, La Altagracia, Barahona, Pedernales, La Romana, monseñor Nouel, Monte Plata, Hato Mayor, Sanchez Ramirez, and El Seibo.Residents in these areas should remain vigilant and heed official warnings.

Provinces designated as green alerts are Maria Trinidad Sanchez,Samaná,Bahoruco,Independencia,Santiago,and Elias Piña. although these areas currently face a lower level of immediate threat, residents are advised to stay informed and prepared for potential changes in weather conditions.

Alert levels across the Dominican Republic as of October 22, 2025.

Authorities are warning of possible river and stream overflows, as well as the risk of flash floods in urban centers within the alerted zones. The COE issued it’s latest bulletin at 5:33 PM local time, outlining the current situation and recommended safety measures.

Tropical Storm Melissa Details

according to data from The National Institute of Meteorology, Tropical Storm Melissa is presently located approximately 415 kilometers south/southwest of Barahona. The storm is currently moving westward at a speed of approximately 24 kilometers per hour.

Forecasters anticipate a deceleration in Melissa’s current pace, followed by a shift in direction towards the northwest and north. The storm currently boasts maximum sustained winds of roughly 85 kilometers per hour, with higher gusts, and is expected to strengthen in the coming days.

Did You Know? the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is used to classify hurricanes based on their sustained wind speeds, with Category 1 being the weakest and Category 5 being the strongest. Learn more about the scale here.

• Tropical Storm Melissa is the 13th storm of the 2025 cyclonic season.
• There is a potential for Melissa to develop into a hurricane.

Alert Level	Description	Recommended Action
Yellow Alert	Moderate risk of hazardous conditions.	Stay informed, monitor weather updates, and prepare for potential disruptions.
Green Alert	Low risk of hazardous conditions.	Remain vigilant and be prepared for potential changes in weather conditions.

Pro Tip: When a flash flood warning is issued, seek higher ground promptly and avoid walking or driving through flooded areas.

Preparing for tropical Storms: A Guide

Preparing for a tropical storm requires proactive measures to protect yourself, your family, and your property. Here’s a checklist of essential steps:

• Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates from reliable sources like the National Hurricane Center and your local meteorological agencies.
• Develop a family Emergency Plan: Discuss evacuation routes, dialogue methods, and meeting points with your family.
• Assemble a Disaster Supply Kit: Include essentials like non-perishable food, water, medications, first-aid supplies, a flashlight, and a battery-powered radio.
• Secure Your Property: Bring loose outdoor items indoors, trim trees and shrubs, and reinforce windows and doors.
• Understand Evacuation Orders: If an evacuation order is issued, follow it promptly and proceed to a designated shelter.

Understanding these steps can drastically improve your preparedness and safety during a tropical storm event.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tropical Storm Melissa

• What is the current status of Tropical Storm Melissa? Tropical Storm Melissa is currently located south/southwest of Barahona and is expected to strengthen.
• What provinces are under a yellow alert? La Vega, San Pedro de Macorís, San Juan, Maria Trinidad Sanchez, Samaná, Santo Domingo, Peravia, Azua, La Altagracia, Barahona, Pedernales, La Romana, Monseñor Nouel, Monte Plata, Hato Mayor, sanchez Ramirez, and El Seibo are under a yellow alert.
• What should I do if I am in a yellow alert zone? Stay informed,monitor updates,and prepare for possible disruptions.
• what is the difference between a yellow and green alert? A yellow alert indicates a moderate risk, while a green alert signifies a lower risk, but vigilance is still advised.
• Where can I find the latest information on Tropical storm Melissa? Refer to updates from the Dominican Republic’s Emergency Operations Center (COE) and the national Institute of Meteorology.

What are your preparations for storm season? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

What should residents in provinces under a Red Alert do to prepare for extreme rainfall?

Current Weather Situation & alert Levels

The Dominican republic is currently under a nationwide rain alert, issued by the National Meteorological Office (ONAMET), effective October 22, 2025. This alert signifies a high probability of intense and prolonged rainfall across the entire country. Several provinces are under varying levels of alert:

* Red Alert: Puerto Plata, Espaillat, santiago, La Vega, Monseñor Nouel, San Cristóbal, and the National district. Expect extreme rainfall – over 200mm in 24 hours – posing a important risk of flooding, landslides, and dam overflows.

* Yellow alert: Santiago Rodríguez, Valverde, Elías piña, Dajabón, Montecristi, Hermanas Mirabal, Sánchez Ramírez, Peravia, and Barahona. Moderate to heavy rainfall (50-100mm in 24 hours) is anticipated, potentially causing localized flooding and landslides.

* Green Alert: Remaining provinces. Expect occasional showers and thunderstorms, but with a lower risk of significant impact. Remain vigilant.

This weather system is attributed to a trough interacting with a frontal system, bringing increased moisture and atmospheric instability. The heavy rainfall is expected to continue for at least the next 36-48 hours.Stay updated with the latest Dominican Republic weather forecast from ONAMET.

Potential Impacts & Risks

The widespread rainstorm poses several risks to residents and infrastructure throughout the Dominican Republic. Understanding these potential impacts is crucial for effective preparation:

* Flooding: Low-lying areas, particularly near rivers and streams, are at high risk of flash floods.Urban areas with inadequate drainage systems are also vulnerable.

* Landslides & Mudslides: The mountainous regions of the country are particularly susceptible to landslides and mudslides, especially in areas with deforestation or unstable slopes.

* Dam Overflow: Increased rainfall can lead to dam overflows,potentially causing downstream flooding and damage.

* Infrastructure damage: roads, bridges, and power lines may be damaged or disrupted by heavy rainfall and flooding.

* Agricultural Losses: Prolonged rainfall can damage crops and livestock, impacting the agricultural sector.

* Disruption to Travel: Airports may experience delays or cancellations, and road travel may become hazardous.

safety Measures & Emergency Preparedness

Taking proactive steps to prepare for the Dominican republic rain alert can considerably reduce your risk and ensure your safety.

1. Stay Informed: Continuously monitor updates from ONAMET (https://www.onamet.gov.do/) and local authorities. Follow trusted news sources for the latest weather updates.
2. Emergency kit: Assemble an emergency kit containing:

* Non-perishable food and water (at least 3 days’ supply)

* First-aid kit

* Flashlight and extra batteries

* Radio (battery-powered or hand-crank)

* Medications

* Cash

* Vital documents (copies of identification, insurance policies)

3. Secure Your Home:

* Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent water buildup.

* Secure loose objects that could be blown away by strong winds.

* Reinforce doors and windows.

* If you live in a flood-prone area, consider sandbagging.

4. Evacuation Plans: If you live in a high-risk area,familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and designated shelters. Be prepared to evacuate if instructed by authorities.
5. Avoid Travel: If possible, avoid unnecessary travel during the heavy rain. If you must travel, exercise extreme caution and be aware of road conditions.
6. Power Outages: Be prepared for potential power outages.Have option lighting sources and consider unplugging sensitive electronics.

Real-World Example: 2017 Hurricane Maria & Rainfall impacts

The devastation caused by Hurricane Maria in 2017 serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of extreme rainfall events in the Dominican republic. While a hurricane is different than the current situation, the resulting flooding and landslides caused widespread damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and homes. The event highlighted the importance of robust early warning systems, effective evacuation plans, and resilient infrastructure. Lessons learned from Maria are being applied to improve disaster preparedness efforts across the country.

Resources & Contact Facts

* ONAMET (National Meteorological Office): https://www.onamet.gov.do/

* Emergency Operations Center (COE): 911

* Local Civil Defense Authorities: Contact your local municipality for information on emergency procedures and shelters.

* dominican Red Cross: [https://www.cruzroja.org.do/](https://www.cruzroja.org