Flood — North Central, Puerto Rico

2001-03-07 to 2001-03-09 · near North Portion, North Central, Puerto Rico

Wider weather episode

A strong low pressure system north of the area caused large northwest swells to move across the coastal waters. These swells began to arrive on Wednesday night and continued into Friday morning. The most affected areas were the west and north coasts of the island where various coastal roads were inundated especially at times of high tide. Emergency Managers indicated road 681 in Barceloneta, road 187 in Loiza, and various roads in Aguadilla and Mayaguez were directly affected by the heavy surf with water, sand and debris. In Yumet sector in Aguadilla these swells partially destroyed a boardwalk and street lightning. In Higuey sector, also in Aguadilla, various boats and a drydock were partially damaged. Elsewhere, in Manati Beach two people were walking along the beach Wednesday night when they were overtaken by the large waves and pulled out to sea. One person was able to reach land. The other one disappeared and was presumed dead.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 5230188. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.