2nd
October 2010 – A broad area of showers and thunderstorms extending from
the Leeward Islands eastward into the Atlantic Ocean is associated with a
surface trough of low pressure. Environmental conditions appear favorable for
possible expansion of these thunderstorms over the next 36 hours. This trough
of low pressure is expected to move to the west or west northwest around 15 mph
during the next 24 hours and will reach the Virgin Islands just after midnight tonight
and the eastern end of Puerto Rico
before daybreak Sunday. Thunderstorms are then expected to track westward across the Puerto
Rico during the day Sunday.
Satellite data indicates that these thunderstorms are
embedded in an area of extremely high values of water and is producing huge rainfall
amounts. Given the very wet antecedent conditions and expected rainfall amounts,
this system poses a threat of flash flooding in some areas. Flash flooding means a flood that occurs within a few hours (usually less than six) of heavy or excessive rainfall. In addition mudslides are possible in areas of steep terrain. A flash flood watch means that conditions are
favorable for heavy rain across the watch area which may lead to flooding.
Residents living in flood prone areas
are asked to pay close attention to this information and be ready for quick
action if flooding is observed or if a flash flood warning is issued.
People in the watch area should continue to be aware of the
possibility for heavy rainfall. Avoid low lying areas with poor drainage and be
careful when approaching roadways that are flooded.
Residents and visitors are asked to monitor weather
conditions as the Atlantic and Eastern Caribbean area is very active at this
time. The DDM will continue to monitor the system and provide weather releases
as necessary. Please visit the Department of Disaster Management’s website at www.bviddm.com for continuous updates.
Disclaimer:
The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) is not an official Meteorological
Office. The Information disseminated by the Department is gathered from a
number of professional sources used or contracted by the DDM to provide such
information. This information is to be used as a guide by anyone who has interest
in local weather conditions. By no means can the DDM or the BVI Government be
held accountable by anyone who uses this information appropriately for legal
evidence or in justification of any decision which may result in the loss of
finances, property or life.
