Dominica’s Forestry Division has issued an emergency closure of the Freshwater Lake Trail due to severe and continuous rainfall over the weekend.
Dominica: Following the heavy rainfall in the country, Freshwater Lake Trail has been closed for public use as it said to currently pose a serious safety risk for anyone using it.
The Freshwater Lake Trail is temporarily closed as it was assessed and announced as ‘severely compromised’. The decision to close this trail was taken with the aim of safeguarding the public and visitors by preventing potential accidents.
Over the weekend, the Nature Island experienced non-stop heavy rainfall in the country which led Dominica’s Forestry, Wildlife and Parks Division to issue a public service announcement for the emergency closure of the Freshwater Lake Trail. According to the statement shared by The Forestry Division on the 28th of January the trail is temporarily closed effective immediately.
“The Forestry Division advises the general public that the Freshwater Lake Trail is temporarily CLOSED with immediate effect.”
This Freshwater Trail in Morne Trois Pitons National Park is considered as a centre piece of the country’s eco-tourism. It is famously used for hiking, walking, kayaking, and offering relaxation for many visitors.
The Forestry Division reported that rainfall has compromised a section of the trail and labelled it as unsafe for use.
“Due to heavy and continuous rainfall over the weekend, a section of the trail was severely compromised. This condition poses a serious safety risk and makes the trail unsafe to traverse at this time.”
This public announcement was shared by the Division of Forestry, Wildlife and Parks on their official Facebook page who have urged the public to stay clear of the area.
“Members of the public are strongly advised to refrain from using the trail until further notice.”
The division assured the public that they continue to monitor the area and that their safety is of top priority to them. They have encouraged the public to cooperate with them as this decision will help in ensuring safety for all.