THE FLASH-FLOOD WARNING HAS BEEN EXTENED FOR ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

 

Issued at 12:00 Noon, Friday 30th October, 2020

 

Breezy conditions, light to heavy showers, periods of intermittent rain and isolated thunderstorms are anticipated across St. Vincent and the Grenadines due to instability associated with the tail end of a tropical wave and a favourable upper level environment. Rainfall accumulations of 75mm (approximately 3 inches) with isolated higher amounts in mountainous areas are possible within the next 24 hours.

During the last 24 hours, rainfall accumulations of near 5 inches (~125 mm) have been recorded by some stations across the mainland and there have been reports of flash-flooding, land slippage which led to inaccessible roads, raging rivers and damage to properties in various communities. In addition, wind speeds of approximately 20-40km/h or 12-25mp/h with higher gusts near showers are expected to continue across SVG this afternoon and tonight. Due to the saturated nature of the soils, any additional rainfall accompanied by these winds speeds could lead to additional flooding and further damages.

As a result, the Flash-Flood warning which is already in effect for St. Vincent and the Grenadines is now extended until further notice.  Residents and motorists in areas  prone  to  flooding  and landslides  or  near  rivers  and  streams  should  continue to be vigilant and take  the  necessary precautionary measures to protect life and property. Due to the expected gusty winds vulnerable plants/trees may fall and over-head wires may become disconnected. Residents are advised to be vigilant and secure all loose objects.

 A Flash-Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or is already occurring.