The Saint Lucia Meteorological Services and the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) have been on high alert since the beginning of this year’s hurricane season, urging residents to stay informed about weather updates and take necessary precautions. Unusual weather patterns, including heavy showers, have been affecting the island recently.
According to Venantius Descartes, Director of Saint Lucia’s Met Services, a tropical disturbance over the Atlantic is likely to become a Tropical Depression soon. The system is moving westward and may pass over the Leeward Islands. Airborne weather experts are closely monitoring it, and potential impacts include thunderstorms and gusty winds.
Residents are advised to continuously monitor weather updates and advisories; especially as heavy showers are expected between Monday and Tuesday. This year has been dubbed a “Year of Extremes,” with persistent high temperatures and the likelihood of strong systems developing during the hurricane season.
Meanwhile, due to consistent rainfall, the Sulphur Springs Park in Soufriere has temporarily closed because of heavy flooding. Officials assure the public that this is a normal occurrence, and the park will reopen once conditions stabilize. Lysander St. John, the Sulphur Springs Project and Maintenance Manager, explains that the overflow of water during consistent rain is typical due to the park’s topography.
“If there is any flooding, it will just cool down whenever the rain cools down,” St John explained. “Due to topography of the area …all the water from the mountains (usually) flows into that area.”
Additionally, Tropical Storm Warnings remain in effect for parts of the Caribbean, including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Millions of people in the region are preparing for potential impacts, such as rockslides, mudslides, and flooding. Weather officials emphasise staying informed and safe during this time
Millions of people across the region have been preparing for the potential impacts of the storm, including heavy precipitation that could trigger rockslides, mudslides, and flooding.
Weather officials urge the public to: Stay informed and stay safe.