News reports say that the Civil Defense evacuated more than 1,000 persons in prevention of flooding due to the threat of Debby. Debby, downgraded from hurricane to tropical storm, eventually treated the DR lightly, bringing only rains that are seen as beneficial for agriculture. The front page of the Listín Diario of 24 August carries a photograph (http://www.listin.com.do/) showing tourists watching in awe the spectacle of the waves caused by Debby crashing along the reefs facing the Puerto Plata Malecón. Puerto Plata International Airport announced flights to that terminal operated as normal, with very flew flights suspended as precaution. Nevertheless, the local Weather Bureau reports that it rains will continue in mountain areas and said precautions should be taken as flooding could occur. The Navy also reported that the cargo boat, Joanna is missing. The ship transported fruit and vegetables to Turks & Caicos, covering the route Puerto Plata-Turks & Caicos-Cap Haitien.
