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.
22nd September 2019 – At 500 PM, the center of Tropical Storm Karen was located near latitude 12.9 North, longitude 62.7 West. Karen is moving toward the west-northwest near 13 mph. A turn toward the northwest is forecast to occur later tonight or on Monday, followed by a turn toward the north on Tuesday. On the forecast track, the centre of Karen will continue to move away from the Windward Islands this evening, and then move across the eastern Caribbean Sea tonight and Monday. 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 forecast during the next 48 hours. Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 105 miles from the centre.
The latest minimum central pressure reported by reconnaissance aircraft 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.
