BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - AS the weather disturbance which had been affecting parts of the Caribbean continues to move further westward into the Caribbean Sea, rainfall in the islands continues and for St. Kitts and Nevis in particular, it had become necessary to implement a flashflood warning.
It was implemented at about mid-morning today (Sept. 5) and was extended until 8:00 p.m. today.
Between yesterday and today, the islands have experienced torrential rainfall during some periods and at others, light to moderate showers.
The St. Kitts Meteorological Office reported to this publication that less than one inch of rain was recorded from yesterday afternoon into the evening. And a considerable amount of rainfall was experienced earlier today, accompanied with gusty winds.
“This is as a result of the tropical wave that is moving westerly into the Caribbean Sea coupled with a low level trough over the northern Leeward Islands.”
The combination of the two was such that it prompted the relative authorities to cancel the first day of school and parents/guardians were advised to keep their children at home.
The Met Office reports that from about 12:50 p.m. yesterday to 2:00 p.m. today, 0.90 inches of rainfall was recorded.
Until the flashflood warning is lifted and even for some time thereafter, individuals are asked to use the Federation’s roadways with extra caution.
“Persons in areas that are prone to flooding are asked to exercise caution and also motorists and residents in areas that are prone to rock slides are asked to exercise caution. Persons are advised to continue paying close attention to the media houses for further updates emanating from the Met. Office as the day progresses.”
Citizens and residents of St. Kitts and Nevis are asked to continue monitoring the local media for updates on the weather and also on the status of the flashflood warning as the time of its expiration approaches.
