heavy rains from the outer bands of hurricane gilbert triggered significant flooding in the dominican republic and haiti. at least nine people perished in the dominican republic as many rivers, including the yuna, overtopped their banks. the main electrical relay station in santo domingo was damaged by the storm, causing a temporary blackout for much of the city. losses in the country were estimated in the millions of dollars. in nearby haiti, more substantial losses took place; 53 people died, including 10 offshore. most of the casualties took place in the southern part of the country. the port of jacmel was reportedly destroyed by waves stirred up by the hurricane. in light of extensive damage, the government of haiti declared a state of emergency for the entire southern peninsula. losses throughout haiti were estimated at $91.2 million.