The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for the British Virgin Islands. There is the possibility a Tropical Storm Warning will be issued in the next 24 hours.
A Tropical Storm Watch means that tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area, generally within 48 hours.
At 1100 PM, the centre of Tropical Storm Karen was located near latitude 13.1 North, longitude 63.5 West. Karen is moving toward the west-northwest near 12 mph. A turn toward the northwest is forecast to occur on Monday, followed by a turn toward the north on Tuesday. On the forecast track, the center of Karen will move across the eastern Caribbean Sea tonight through Monday night. On Tuesday, Karen is expected to pass near or over the British Virgin Islands.
Maximum sustained winds are near 40 mph with higher gusts. Little change in strength is expected during the next couple of days.
Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 105 miles to the northeast of the centre.
The estimated minimum central pressure is 1007 mb.
Impacts on the British Virgin Islands
- Winds gusting to tropical force are possible.
- Possible rainfall amounts of 2 to 4 inches with isolated amounts 6 inches. Figures are based on current information.
- Flash flooding, mudslides and rock slides are possible.
What to do
- More statements may be issued. Please monitor and make preparations. Have your hurricane and flood plans available if needed.
Persons can also download the Alert app in the Apple App store or Google Play store to receive updates of any hazards affecting the Territory.
You can also visit the DDM’s webpage at www.bviddm.com and subscribe for updates or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/bvi.ddm.
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.
