The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service, in coordination with the National Hurricane Center, has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for Antigua and Barbuda as Potential Tropical Cyclone Five moves westward across the Atlantic.
As of 5 PM AST on Sunday, August 11, 2024, the system was located approximately 950 miles east-southeast of Antigua, moving west-northwest at 21 mph.
The disturbance is expected to strengthen into a tropical storm by late Monday and could impact Antigua and Barbuda by Tuesday.
While current maximum sustained winds are near 30 mph, conditions are favorable for development, with the National Hurricane Center forecasting an 80% chance of formation within 48 hours.
Residents of Antigua and Barbuda should prepare for potential tropical storm conditions beginning Tuesday.
The system is expected to bring significant rainfall, with forecasts indicating 4 to 6 inches for the northern Leeward Islands, which includes Antigua and Barbuda.
Tropical storm watches are now in effect for:
- Guadeloupe
- St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, Antigua, Barbuda, and Anguilla
- Saba and St. Eustatius
- St. Martin
- Sint Maarten
This amount of rain could lead to flash flooding and other water-related hazards.
Additionally, the approaching system is likely to generate swells that could affect Antigua and Barbuda beginning Monday night.
These swells may cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions, posing risks to beachgoers and marine activities.
Local authorities advise residents to:
- Stay informed about the system’s progress through official channels
- Review and implement tropical storm preparedness plans
- Secure loose outdoor items that could be blown away by strong winds
- Prepare for possible power outages and disruptions to normal services
- Exercise caution near coastlines due to high surf and dangerous rip currents
The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as the system develops.
Residents are urged to stay tuned to local weather reports and follow guidance from emergency management officials.
