The national emergencies committee (CNE) is warning that tropical storm Odette could provoke heavy rainfall, strong winds and turbulent seas in the vicinity of the Dominican Republic over the next 24 to 36 hours. The emergency services are on red alert, according to CNE president Radhames Lora Salcedo. Most vulnerable are the already waterlogged areas of the north and northwest, which are still feeling the effects of the extensive flooding of a couple of weeks ago. The CNE has been carrying out disaster prevention work in the most vulnerable areas, which include riverbanks, gullies and exposed areas, persuading people to leave their homes before the danger hits. Odette is the 15th storm since the start of this year’s Atlantic hurricane season, and is unusual for having formed in December, after the close date of the official hurricane season, 30 November. For updates, see http://www.dr1.com/forums