Tropical wave over Federation could develop into tropical storm, residents urged to be mindful

By Ryan Haas
Reporter-SKNVibes.com

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts- A low pressure area that is currently moving over the Leeward Islands was this morning (Aug 14) deemed by forecasters as having a fifty percent or greater chance of developing into a tropical storm in the next 48 hours.

It is speculated that a tropical depression could form later today or sometime Friday if the current conditions continue.

According to the U.S. National Hurricane Center’s morning report, “An area of low pressure associated with a tropical wave is passing over the Northern Leeward Islands and is moving westward at 10 to 15 mph. 

This system is showing some signs of organization…while upper-level winds are gradually becoming more conducive for development”.

Swimmers and small vessels are being advised to take caution on the Atlantic Ocean side of St. Kitts-Nevis, as wave conditions could become increasingly tumultuous.

While a storm developing over the next 48 hours may not be a certainty, those living in the Leeward Islands were advised by the National Hurricane Center that “this system could bring locally heavy rains and gusty winds” as it passes over the area.

The current system over the Leeward Islands has gone through various stages of strengthening and weakening over the past week as it continues to move westward from its origin over the mid-Atlantic.