Alert in Arroyo Bonito: Residents fear new floods due to rain forecasts
Uncertainty grips the inhabitants of Arroyo Bonito, in Manoguayabo, once again following the announcement of new rainfall. Residents have expressed deep concern regarding the current state of the storm drainage system and the vulnerability of the ravine that runs through the sector, elements that have historically been the trigger for recurring flooding in the area.
This Tuesday, alarms were raised due to forecasts issued by meteorological authorities, which warn of moderate to heavy downpours, accompanied by thunderstorms and wind gusts over Greater Santo Domingo. Faced with this scenario, families in Arroyo Bonito have begun to take preventive measures to protect their homes and belongings, reliving the trauma of previous years.
A history of constant vulnerability
The Arroyo Bonito community has faced a persistent struggle against flooding, a problem that residents claim to have suffered for more than a decade and a half. The history of damage is extensive and has left significant material losses on multiple occasions:
- March 2023: The overflowing of the creek left dozens of families trapped and paralyzed traffic on 4th Street and Respaldo 5.
- August 2023: The passage of Storm Franklin forced residents to improvise bridges to be able to move through their flooded streets.
- November 2023: Intense rains caused severe damage to homes, businesses, and private vehicles.
- July and November 2024: New overflows forced several families to abandon their homes and seek shelter with relatives due to the loss of furniture and appliances.
- September 2025: The rainfall left a trail of mud, trash, and significant material losses throughout the community.
Every time a rain forecast is announced, our peace of mind disappears. We cannot continue living with the constant fear of losing the little we have. We need a definitive solution from the authorities to clean the ravine and improve the drainage system once and for all.
Testimony from Arroyo Bonito residents
Given the recurrence of these events, the community’s demand is clear: a comprehensive intervention by the competent authorities. Deep cleaning of the ravine and the optimization of the storm drainage system are the urgent measures requested by the residents of Arroyo Bonito to mitigate the risk and prevent the history of destruction from repeating itself with every rainy season.
