Santo Domingo.- As a result of the heavy rains, the National Emergencies Committee (COE) has issued a red alert for the provinces of Santo Domingo, the National District, San Cristóbal, Peravia, Azua, Barahona, Pedernales, Independencia and San Juan de la Maguana. The following provinces are on yellow alert: Santiago, Puerto Plata, Espaillat, Salcedo, Duarte (especially the Lower Yuna), María Trinidad Sánchez, La Vega, Monte Plata, Monseñor Nouel, Hato Mayor (especially Sabana de la Mar), El Seibo (especially Miches) and Sánchez Ramírez.

The COE said that Tropical Depression no. 16 was situated 360 kms south west of Santo Domingo and some 260 kms south of the Haitian capital Port-au-Prince.

The depression is moving in a west/northwesterly direction at about 11kph and it is expected to maintain this pace over the next 24 hours. Maximum sustained winds approaching 55kph. There is a chance it will gather strength in the next 24 hours becoming a Tropical Storm this Sunday. Between 150 and 200 mm rainfall is forecast.

Stormy downpours with strong gusts of wind are expected to continue across the country, especially in the south east, south west, north, north east, and in the Cibao Valley.

Residents in the provinces listed and everyone living in areas prone to flooding, landslides and drainage problems, especially near rivers, streams and gullies, are advised to take all the necessary preventive measures.

The public is advised to:

1. Follow the rules and instructions of civil defense organizations.

2. Follow the bulletins from the Meteorological Office.

3. Remain in contact with the Civil Defense, Army, Red Cross, National Police and the COE, via 911 and 809-472-0909.

4. People who live along riverbanks must remain alert and monitor water levels.