The Minister of Rural Development and Local Government (RDLG), Khadijah Ameen, conducted assessments earlier today to evaluate the damage to properties following adverse weather conditions, specifically a weak tornado impacting the Westmoorings North area. The event resulted in several roofs being damaged and blown off.
Damage has been reported within the Diego Martin Borough Corporation (DMBC), specifically in Cherry Crescent, St. Anthony’s Drive, and Western Circle. Reports indicate that several homes sustained significant roof damage, with some roofs completely blown off and others partially affected. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.
Based on assessments conducted by the DMBC’s Disaster Management Unit (DMU), supported by neighbouring DMU teams from the San Juan/Laventille Regional Corporation and the Port of Spain City Corporation, 12 damaged roofs were recorded. Additionally, there were two reports of flooding, and one report of a fallen tree. Tarpaulins were distributed to affected households as part of immediate relief efforts.
Minister Ameen was joined by Minister in the Ministry of Housing, Phillip Edward Alexander, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government who are also assisting in the assessment process. Key response stakeholders were also on-site, including representatives from the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force, the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, the Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission (T&TEC), and local Councillors.
It should be noted that the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government (RDLG) has oversight of the national Local Government system, which includes the Disaster Management Units (DMUs) within each Corporation. The DMUs are responsible for conducting comprehensive assessments and data collection, coordinating debris removal with the use of heavy equipment, and collaborating with key agencies such as T&TEC and WASA to restore normalcy to affected communities. These efforts are essential to ensuring that damaged infrastructure and public utilities are fully restored to their original condition.
The Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government continues to coordinate with all relevant agencies to ensure a swift and effective response to affected residents, prioritizing safety, temporary relief, and the restoration of essential services.
All affected persons are asked to contact their respective Disaster Management Units (DMUs) for assistance.
Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.