Emergency in the Northwest: 12 deaths reported and significant material losses after three days of torrential rain

The situation has become extremely critical in the Northwest Department after torrential rains struck the region between April 11 and 13, 2026. The municipalities of Port-de-Paix, Saint-Louis du Nord, and Anse-à-Foleur are currently the hardest hit by these severe floods, which threaten to worsen if the rainfall continues. According to a report from the Northwest Departmental Directorate of Civil Protection, the human toll is tragic, with 12 deaths recorded in the 1st, 3rd, and 4th sections of Saint-Louis du Nord. In addition to the loss of life, several serious injuries have been reported, including one person hospitalized in Saint-Louis du Nord and a woman injured while attempting to cross the floodwaters in Bas Vieux-Joux.

The material damage is considerable and is paralyzing the socio-economic life of the region. In Port-de-Paix and the surrounding area, more than 800 homes are flooded, particularly in the Bas Vieux-Joux, Gros-Sable, and Aubert neighborhoods. Infrastructure has also been affected: the Austrian Hospital is flooded and its perimeter fence damaged, while the Ti Riviè bridge has been completely destroyed. The departmental roads are now impassable, disrupting transportation and forcing the complete shutdown of schools and businesses in Saint-Louis du Nord and Anse-à-Foleur.