BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – A tropical storm, likely to be named Emily by tomorrow, is reported to be some 300 miles east of Martinique and a small craft advisory is in effect for St. Kitts and Nevis.
A bulletin issued this morning states that persons living in low lying or flood-prone areas are asked to exercise extreme caution as heavy rainfall is expected as the approaching system gathers strength on its trek towards the northern Leewards.
“Persons are also cautioned not to park within known waterways and ghauts and to do everything in their power to keep themselves and their families safe. Also, tune in to local media outlets for weather related alerts that are unique to St. Kitts and Nevis,” the bulletin reads.
According to the National Weather Service, National Hurricane Centre (NHC) in Miami, Florida, the vigorous low pressure is showing some signs of improved organisation and a tropical depression could form later today (August 1).
“This system,” it added, “has a high chance (90 percent) of becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours as it moves west-northwestward at around 15 mph.”
The USNHC stated that a hurricane hunter aircraft is currently investigating the disturbance to determine if it has a well-defined surface circulation center.
“If the system becomes a tropical storm today, tropical storm warnings would be issued for portions of the Northern Windward Islands and the Leeward Islands on very short notice. Interests in these areas should closely monitor the progress of this system,” the USNHC said.
The USNHC warns that regardless of a tropical cyclone formation, this system would bring heavy rainfall and gusty winds to certain sections of the Lesser Antilles today and tonight.
