Dominican Republic Floods Kill Toddler, Damage Over 1,000 Homes

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Santo domingo, Dominican Republic: Heavy rains across the Dominican Republic have claimed the life of a toddler, damaged more than 1,000 homes, and caused widespread power and water outages, prompting authorities to suspend classes in several schools.

In the capital, Santo Domingo, a nearly two-year-old girl was killed after a wall collapsed at her home, according to the Civil Defense agency.

Officials said some areas received up to 12 inches (30 cm) of rain in less than 24 hours, forcing the evacuation of more than 5,000 people. President Luis Abinader noted that such extreme rainfall would overwhelm drainage systems anywhere in the world.

The government has instructed nonessential workers to stay home as authorities warn of flooding and potential landslides. More than a dozen provinces remain on alert, with Santo Domingo among the hardest hit.

Local media reported that over 20 communities in San José de Ocoa province were cut off after a river overflowed its banks.

Emergency crews have carried out multiple rescues, including saving seven people trapped in rising floodwaters. The heavy rains, which began on Monday, are expected to ease by Wednesday night.