Flash flooding triggered by unstable conditions associated with a deep trough and a tropical wave, caused severe damage in the island’s north on Sunday, with homes, vehicles and businesses submerged in deep water, and landslides causing additional damage to public infrastructure.

The south of the island remained relatively dry, comparatively. A 6 p.m. weather report issued by the Saint Lucia Met. Services, showed rainfall at the Hewanorra International Airport measured 5.7 mm on Nov. 6, compared with 42.5 mm at the George FL Charles Airport in Castries.

Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Hon. Philip J. Pierre spoke on the widespread flooding in a statement issued yesterday.

“I have visited some of the affected areas and witnessed, first-hand, the devastation to infrastructure caused by the heavy rainfall experienced in the north. The torrential rains, the related flooding, and land slippages have left families with major damage and loss of property. I know many people, particularly in the south experienced little to no rainfall and for that I am thankful.”

Government teams were dispatched yesterday to clear roads and waterways, and assess damages sustained as a result of the floods. The prime minister said damage assessments will continue into Monday. In addition, Senior Minister, Hon. Stephenson King, was recalled from the Geothermal Congress to lead emergency infrastructure rebuilding efforts.

“I have recalled Hon. Stephenson King, Senior Minister and Minister with responsibility for Infrastructure back to the island as he was en-route to Mexico City on a fully sponsored trip to the ninth Geothermal Congress for Latin America and the Caribbean. His ministry will be critical in the clean-up and rebuilding of our infrastructure,” the prime minister said.

Prime Minister Pierre advised those in areas prone to flooding and landslides to exercise extreme caution and pledged government’s commitment to provide relief to the most vulnerable.

“We expect more rain overnight, so I am asking people in areas prone to flooding and landslides to exercise extreme caution. I know that most people are in disbelief as to the magnitude and rapidity of the devastation. Climate change is real. We are working to provide basic relief to those who have lost everything during this disaster. A more comprehensive update will be given to the public as soon as it is available. Please stay safe Saint Lucia. May God be our strength and shield.”

A 6 a.m. weather forecast issued by the Saint Lucia Met Services today, Nov. 7, has predicted additional scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms due to unstable conditions trailing the trough system. Residents and motorists in areas prone to flooding and landslides are advised to exercise caution as soils are already saturated and any additional rainfall may trigger these hazards.

Meanwhile, a tropical wave located over the western Tropical Atlantic is expected to affect the Lesser Antilles on Wednesday.