Nearly four hours of intermittent rainfall over north-western Trinidad caused flash flooding in several areas around the capital.
According to the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM), southern parts of Port-of-Spain, including South Quay and Independence Square, were impassable. Commuters using public transportation faced lengthy delays, with many seeking temporary shelter and having to navigate flooded areas around City Gate.
In Maraval, multiple points along Saddle Road experienced ponding, particularly in Boissiere Village and near Maraval Plaza. Flooding was also reported in Woodbrook near the intersections of Colville Street and Ariapita Avenue, as well as Wrightson Road near French Street and Fitt Street.
A private weather station in Woodbrook recorded approximately 2.5 inches of rainfall during the event, with a peak rainfall intensity of 200 millimetres (eight inches) per hour — classified as ‘extreme’ on most scales.
The ODPM also reported flooding along Lady Young Road near the bridge by the Belmont Police Station, further exacerbating traffic for those seeking alternative routes out of Port-of-Spain.
This marks the third occurrence of flash flooding in north-western Trinidad this month. Although areas further west, such as Diego Martin, did not receive the same intensity of rainfall, a landslip was reported on Union Road, damaging a resident’s driveway. Consecutive days of rainfall in hilly areas increase slope instability, raising the risk of similar incidents.
The Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government and the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure issued press releases identifying affected areas. Motorists were urged to avoid flooded and flood-prone zones and prioritize safety until conditions improve. Residents were also encouraged to contact their local Corporation’s Disaster Management Unit via hotline, as listed on official websites and social media pages.
The trend of afternoon thunderstorms is expected to continue for the remainder of the week. Heavy downpours may trigger street and flash flooding, particularly in western coastal areas and other urban or low-lying zones.
The T&T Meteorological Service (TTMS) has updated its Rainfall and Temperature Outlook for September to November 2025, forecasting near-normal rainfall with moderate flood potential and warmer-than-average days and nights. TTMS warned that surface water ponding could promote mosquito breeding, increasing the risk of vector-borne diseases. Residents are advised to prepare sandbags and take precautions to mitigate the impacts of heavy rainfall and higher temperatures.
