Flooding in Guadeloupe

Guadeloupe : Heavy rains in Guadeloupe has caused havoc across sections of the French island.

On Monday authorities were forced to close the international airport at Raizet because of rising flood waters and several sections of Pointe a Pitre, which is partially below sea level, were covered with over 50cm of water, blocking traffic in and out of the city. Many motorists were also trapped in their vehicles for hours.

The communities of Baie Mahault, Abymes, Petit Bourg and Gosier were affected as well.

Since last week the French island has been in the coded color ‘vigilance jaune,’ meaning there is a risk of heavy showers and flooding but by Monday the code was changed to ‘vigilance orange’ meaning citizens should remain indoors until Tuesday.

As of late Monday evening many roads remained blocked due to flood waters while rescue authorities assist those in need.