Port-au-Prince, Haiti - On Saturday, 3 June, Haiti was battered by a relentless rainstorm, wreaking havoc across the country. The downpours, accompanied by fierce winds and thunderstorms, were triggered by a stationary low-pressure system that lingered over the nation throughout the day. As a result, Haiti witnessed heavy rainfall, causing widespread flooding, rockslides, and landslides in riverside communities.

The situation was exacerbated by the fact that some areas, such as Port-de-Paix in the North-West, had already endured heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding in the previous week. The soil in these regions was already saturated, leaving it incapable of absorbing the additional precipitation.

Although the situation seemed to subside by 4 June, the Haiti Meteorological Unit (UMH) issued a warning about the potential arrival of another low-pressure system in the coming week. If heavy rainfall persists, the already waterlogged soil will be unable to prevent further flooding, rockslides, and landslides. This could potentially lead to a rise in the current death toll. The UMH, in collaboration with the Directorate of Civil Protection (DGPC), has launched an awareness campaign, urging residents living in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and take necessary safety precautions during heavy downpours.

On 6 June, the residents of Jérémie, the capital of the Grand'Anse department, were jolted awake by a magnitude 5.5 earthquake. This marks the second instance of seismic activity in the region within a few days, following a 4.1-magnitude quake on 4 June. The Grand'Anse department was one of the hardest-hit areas during the devastating 7.2-magnitude earthquake in August 2021, which affected more than 800,000 people.

The DGPC has reported three fatalities, 28 injuries, and numerous collapsed homes as a result of the recent earthquakes. Rescue operations are currently underway, with the DGPC at the forefront of efforts. The humanitarian community in Haiti stands ready to provide support and assistance to those affected by the disasters.

As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the rainstorm and the series of earthquakes, Haiti remains on high alert, bracing for further devastation. The government and humanitarian organizations are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of the population, but the road to recovery is expected to be long and challenging.