Strong tropical wave approaching Barbados

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Jun 18 2017 – The Barbados Met Office says an approaching tropical wave is expected to begin affecting Barbados late Monday into Tuesday.

The system is showing some slow development at this time and it could become a tropical storm by the time it approaches Barbados and the southern Windwards early Monday night . The Met Office says this could require the issuing of a Tropical Storm Watch or Warning for Barbados at late notice.

Forecast models are indicating sustained surface winds of between 40 to 50 knots (45 to 55 mph) with higher gusts on the northern periphery of the system as it moves across the region.  In addition, large easterly swells of 5 to 6m (16 to 20 ft) are also forecast to accompany the system.   Thus, a High-Surf Advisory  and Small-Craft Warning will be in effect from 6 a.m on Monday.

The Met Office says regardless of development, deteriorating conditions with pockets of moderate to heavy showers, thunderstorms occasional gusty winds are expected spread across Barbados by tomorrow night. Rainfall accumulations of 2 to 4 inches (50 to 100 millimetres) are possible. Due to the already saturated nature of the soils, some flash-flooding is likely in low-lying areas.

Residents are urged to be on the alert and take all necessary precautions.

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