Erika watch upgraded to tropical storm warning for SKN

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts-A slight move to the south for Tropical Storm Erika has caused the tropical storm watch issued for the Federation last night to be upgraded to a warning as of 8 a.m. today (Sept. 2).

According to the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Office as of this morning, the centre of the storm system was located “near latitude 16.5 north...longitude 59.5 west or about 219 miles east of St. Kitts and 223 miles east of Nevis”.

“The system has been moving generally west at 7 mph with maximum sustained winds of 45 mph. Storm force winds extend outward up to 120 miles, mainly to the northeast of the centre,” the bulletin further stated. 

While Erika had been previous forecast to pass north of St. Kitts-Nevis, a shift in direction and the unpredictability of the storm caused the Antigua Meteorological Office to issue a warning for the Federation.

“There is a fair degree of uncertainty with respect to its eventual path and strength. However, based on the last and best information, the storm is now expected to pass a little further south of its previous forecast track. Therefore, a tropical storm warning has been issued for St. Kitts and Nevis, as storm force winds are now likely Wednesday night.”

A tropical storm warning means that tropical storm conditions are likely in the warning area within the next 24 hours. 

“Heavy showers and thunderstorms, which could result in minor to moderate flooding in lowly and flood prone areas” are also currently forecast to pass over the Federation, and the public is being advised to take proper precautions. 

At this time, the Meteorological Office does not deem “battering down” as a necessity for all residents, but did state that “persons in relatively weak structures may do so to be on the safe side”.

The system is not expected to gain hurricane strength before it passes over St. Kitts and Nevis this evening, but any loose objects that could become projectiles in the high winds should be secured. 

According to the communiqué, seas have begun to deteriorate and waves could reach up to 12 feet in height by this evening.
“Hence, mariners should seek safe anchorage for their crafts until the system passes.”

Tropical storm warnings have also been issued for Antigua and Barbuda, Montserrat, Anguilla, St. Maarten, Saba and St. Eustatius. 

All residents are asked to closely monitor the progress of the system, and further updates will be issued as it approaches the Leeward Islands.