Tropical Wave to affect SVG by Thursday afternoon

According to information received from the St Vincent and the Grenadines Meteorological Services, unstable conditions associated with the passage of two tropical waves have been generating showers and thunderstorm activity across St Vincent and the Grenadines during the last few days.

By Thursday afternoon, a trough system coupling with a tropical wave could bring significant rainfall across St Vincent and the Grenadines. Showers and thunderstorm activity could become heavy, with squally conditions possible. Soils are already saturated which could possibly result in flash-flooding and land slippage.

At short notice, the St Vincent and the Grenadines Meteorological Service may issue a Flash-Flood Watch or Warning as conditions warrant.

In addition, St Vincent and the Grenadines can experience moderate to fresh breeze, with occasional strong gusts/squally (40 – 50 km/h) conditions Thursday afternoon into the night. Gradual reduction in wind speeds is expected during Friday.

Moderate sea-conditions are near 1.5 m on western coasts and up to 2.2 m on eastern coasts. Swell heights are rising, possibly nearing 1.8 m on western coasts and 2.5 m on eastern coasts by Thursday evening. Therefore, small craft operators and sea-bathers should continue to exercise caution for above normal east north-easterly sea-swells and gusty winds.

The National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) urges all residents and motorists in low-lying areas and those living near rivers and streams especially persons living in areas such as Fitz-Hughes, Chateaubelair, Spring Village, Vermont, Buccament, Rose Place, Calliaqua, Belair, Dauphine, Arnos Vale, Marriaqua, Lowmans, Greggs, South Rivers, Dickson, Langley Park, Sandy Bay, Owia and Fancy to continue to be vigilant.

Residents in the Grenadine Islands are also asked to be vigilant and exercise caution in areas prone to flooding, landslide and rock fall.

The National Emergency Management Organisation is also appealing to all persons to continue to pay attention to the information issued by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Meteorological Services and to heighten their preparedness as we are in the wetter months of the hurricane season.