Image credited to NOAA PR
19TH July, 2010 –
Over the past few days, the heavy downpours, gusty
winds, lightning and other effects of the passing tropical wave have left the Virgin
Islands’ soil extremely saturated. More rainfall could cause mudslides, fallen
rocks and flooding of roads.
A second
tropical wave, forecast to past in the vicinity of the Territory, is now just
east of the local area. The WNW movement should take the wave above the Virgin Islands,
but a huge area of isolated showers and thunderstorms could affect the
territory with more heavy showers.
Residents are
therefore informed that a Flash Flood Watch has been issued until Tuesday
evening.
Due to this
Wave, sea conditions have begun to deteriorate in some areas, making it hazardous
to operate small motor vessels. Mariners should exercise extreme caution on
open waters as squall-like conditions within thunderstorms may occur.
Mariners are
therefore informed that a small craft advisory is in effect until Tuesday
afternoon.
Residents and visitors
are reminded to EXERCISE EXTREME CAUTION as driving through flooded roadways
can be very dangerous.
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 inappropriately for legal
evidence or in justification of any decision which may result in the loss of
finances, property or life.