Learn How to Prepare for Severe Weather in the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is subject to severe weather which can pose a threat to the safety of U.S. citizens residing in or visiting the country. While hurricanes are a particular threat, tropical rainstorms can cause flash flooding, landslides and dangerous riptides. All severe weather should be taken seriously.

U.S. citizens are encouraged to prepare themselves for weather and other emergencies, and to be alert for resulting dangers which can be more severe and unpredictable than in the United States due to the climate as well as the variable quality of infrastructure and attention to safety standards.

Here are some key recommendations to stay safe during severe weather:

Remain current on weather, road and water conditions through news sources such as the National Hurricane Center https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
U.S. citizen residents and visitors are strongly encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Program which enables the Embassy to share both emergency and routine information relevant to the Dominican Republic. Enrollment is completed at https://step.state.gov/
Visit https://www.ready.gov/ for tips on emergency preparedness
Update and review your family’s contingency plans; all U.S. citizens should have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
Make sure your travel documents are up to date and easily accessible.
If you are in a crisis-affected area and are safe, be sure to notify friends and loved ones.
Contact police or other local authorities if you encounter dangerous conditions and follow any warnings or directions provided.
Never attempt to drive through standing water, find alternate routes.
If you have an emergency, you can call 911 in the capital region. For other locations the Tourist Police (CESTUR) central number is 809-200-3500 or call the National Police at 809-682-2151. The “CESTUR” mobile app also includes a panic button and other relevant English language information and features for travelers.
Spanish language alerts are available from the Dominican emergency management agency (COE) http://www.coe.gob.do/ or via their mobile web app “alertaCOE”