Torrential rain triggers widespread flooding across Antigua

Antigua and Barbuda was hit with massive flooding as a result of a trough in the area on Thursday. The Met Office had issued a flash flood warning, which was in effect in low-lying and flood-prone areas, which ran up until 2 pm and has since been lifted. 

The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Office said that a trough over the British Virgin Islands and Leeward caused periodic moderate to heavy showers. On Tuesday, the country recorded two inches of rain in the south within three hours.

As the torrential rain triggered widespread flooding across Antigua, citizens of the country shared various footage showcasing vehicles and individuals submerged halfway into the waters. 

While the south of the island remained dry and unaffected by the heavy rains, other parts of Antigua were hit hard by severe flooding.

According to the information, the rains have been affecting the island since Tuesday, and yesterday, another rough forecasting day with intense rainfall, caused massive flooding, with the peak 12-hour radar estimate being 240.8 mm (9.48 in); 210.5 mm fell in 6hrs (right) and ground zero for rainfall was recorded around Ottos in St Johns. 

It is to be noted that the atmospheric instability over the northeast Caribbean is influencing the weather over the leeward island, which is causing periodic heavy showers not only in Antigua but also in St Kitts.

The National Emergency Management Agency is advising motorists in particular that while commuting, low visibilities could also cause situations that are hazardous, and they should take extra care in such circumstances. 

The NEMA also advised the residents that if they are driving in a small car (low to the ground) that is smaller than a jeep, it advised that they should avoid going to the Ebenezer/ Jennings Area in Antigua at this moment.

Meanwhile, the citizens of Antigua also shared their experiences during the flash floods with Natasha Simon, saying that she was stuck in Jennings for two hours on Tuesday through Facebook.