Caribbean on High Alert As TS Tammy is Expected to Make Landfall this Weekend

Friday, Oct 20

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EGIONAL: As Tropical Storm Tammy emerges in the Atlantic, positioned at a distance of 425 miles east-southeast of Guadeloupe, the Caribbean region is urged to stay vigilant as it braces for the 19th storm of the season.

While the storm is currently advancing westward, meteorologists forecast a gradual shift to the west-northwest in the days ahead.

With maximum sustained winds reaching approximately 60 mph, accompanied by higher gusts, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) foresees Tammy gaining strength as it approaches the Leeward Islands. It's essential to note, however, that the storm is not projected to escalate to hurricane status while impacting the Lesser Antilles.

Given its proximity to the Caribbean islands, Tropical Storm Watches have already been issued, with additional watches and warnings anticipated as the situation evolves. At present, a Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Barbados, Dominica, Martinique, Guadeloupe, Antigua & Barbuda, Montserrat, and St. Kitts & Nevis.

Each of these islands has established its own preparedness and response measures to address such natural disasters. For instance, Antigua & Barbuda oversees disaster preparedness and response through its National Office of Disaster Services (NODS). Dominica has proactively enhanced the resilience of its housing infrastructure against climate-related challenges, with MMC Development Ltd. leading the construction of numerous climate-resilient residential units and other public buildings.

Similarly, the twin-island nation of St. Kitts & Nevis has a National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) responsible for disaster preparedness and response. It's noteworthy that Puerto Rico is not within the watch areas. Instead, the island can expect adverse weather conditions over the upcoming weekend.

A Tropical Storm Watch is typically issued when sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph are possible within the next 48 hours. These winds may be accompanied by storm surge and coastal flooding, underscoring the importance for residents and authorities to stay informed and prepared. The progress of Tropical Storm Tammy will be closely monitored, with further updates provided as necessary.

Last modified on Friday, 20 October 2023 12:48