February 7, 2024 – Marigot, Dominica
The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services has issued a flash flood watch statement for multiple Caribbean islands, including Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands, Antigua and Barbuda, Montserrat, St Kitts and Nevis, the US Virgin Islands, the Turks and Caicos Islands, and St Maarten.
According to the statement, a flash flood watch has been extended for low-lying areas of Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands until 8 am on Thursday. Additionally, a flash flood watch will be in effect for Antigua and Barbuda, Montserrat, and St Kitts and Nevis from 8 pm on Wednesday to 8 pm on Thursday.
The Met Service emphasizes that a flash flood watch means moderate to major flooding is possible but not imminent. Residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas are urged to make preparations to safeguard life and property. They should be prepared to move to higher ground if flooding rains develop or if a flash flood warning is issued.
The frontal trough over the British Virgin Islands is causing periodic heavy showers, with up to 4 inches of rain already falling in some areas in the last 24 hours. Another 1 to 4 inches is possible by Thursday 8 pm, increasing the risk of moderate to major flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
In the US Virgin Islands, the National Weather Service advises residents that rainfall will continue throughout the night into tomorrow morning. Due to saturated ground, flooding and mudslides remain possible, and caution is advised while driving. Marine conditions will also remain hazardous, especially in the Atlantic waters and Anegada Passage.
The Turks and Caicos Islands National Weather Service issues a high surf warning for all islands until 8 am on Friday, warning of life-threatening surfs and rip currents near affected coastlines due to moderate swells.
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Service in St Maarten issued a flood watch until Thursday at 6 pm, with accumulations of 2 to 4 inches of rainfall expected over the next 24 to 48 hours, accompanied by gusty winds and thunderstorms.
Residents in these areas are urged to stay informed about weather updates and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this period of heightened weather activity.
For further updates and advisories, residents are encouraged to monitor local meteorological services and emergency management agencies.
