Tropical storm warning in effect, hurricane watch discontinued in SVG

A Tropical Storm Warning remains in effect for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) and the Hurricane Watch has been discontinued.

A Tropical Storm Warning means storm conditions are expected across SVG.

At 5pm, Tropical Storm Gonzalo was centered 10.0 N 55.6 W, about east 390 miles (625km) east of the Southern Windward Islands.

Maximum sustained winds have deceased to near 40mph (65km/h) with higher gusts. “Gonzalo” is moving westward at 18 mph (30km/h) with a minimum central pressure of 1008mb (29.77 inches).

Possible impacts tonight include moderate to heavy showers, gust winds near showers and scattered thunderstorms will spread across SVG. Residents and motorists in areas prone to flooding and landslides or near rivers and streams should remain alert.

These conditions will be experienced tomorrow morning, with further deterioration by late Saturday with torrential rain, thunderstorms and near storm force winds 30mph-50mph (48km/h – 80km/h) during Saturday night across Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, but more so in the Grenadines.

Rainfall accumulations of 75 – 100 millimeters (3-4 inches) with higher amounts in mountainous area by Sunday morning could result in life-threatening flashfloods in low-lying areas.

Presently, moderate sea conditions with swells peaking to 1.5m on the eastern coasts and 2.5m on the western coasts will be observed and small craft operators and sea bathers are advised to exercise caution.

A high surf advisory and small craft warning will be in large swells of 3.0m to 4.0m (10ft – 13ft).

All residents are urged to make all the necessary preparations for the approach and the impacts of “Gonzalo”.The Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Meteorological Services will continue to monitor the progress of Tropical Storm Gonzalo and provide the necessary updates.

Prepared by Neverson-Jack