TS Dorian watch remains in effect for Dominica, Met updates

Another menacing storm is on track to slam the Caribbean, including islands like Dominica and Puerto Rico that are still grappling with the devastation of hurricane Maria.

Tropical Storm Dorian has intensified in the Atlantic Ocean, whipping 60 mph winds Monday as it churned west toward several Caribbean islands. As per the information by the end of the week, Dorian is expected to move toward the Bahamas and possibly south-eastern parts of the mainland US.

As per the 5 pm update by the Dominica Meteorological Office, Tropical Storm Dorian was located near Latitude 12.7N and Longitude 58.8W approximately 60 miles south east of Barbados (396km or 247 miles south east of Dominica). Dorian is moving toward the west-northwest near 14 mph (22 km/h) and this motion is expected to continue through Tuesday night, followed by a turn toward the northwest on Wednesday.

As per the information the center of Dorian is expected to be near the Windward Islands this evening and tonight, and move into the eastern Caribbean Sea on Tuesday.

Also, Maximum sustained winds are near 60mph (95 km/h) with higher gusts. Some strengthening is forecast during the next few days and Dorian could be near hurricane strength when it passes through the northern Windward Islands on Tuesday. Tropical-storm-force winds extend outwards up to 45 miles (75 km) from the center.

The center of Dorian is projected to pass over the Windward Islands (southern portion of the island chain), approximately 100 miles south of Dominica. Regardless, pockets of moderate to heavy shower and thunderstorm activity generated by the system are projected to spread northwards across Dominica from tonight and throughout Tuesday along with gusty winds possible up to tropical storm strength. Rainfall projection is for 2 to 4 inches (50-100mm) across Dominica with higher amounts in elevated areas. Flash flooding and landslides are therefore possible.

Small craft operators and other sea users are advised to exercise extreme caution during the next 24 to 36 hours due to rough seas particularly along the south and west coasts. A small craft warning will be in effect from 6pm today until 6pm Tuesday 27th August.

Prime Minister of Dominica Dr. Roosevelt Skerrit also addressed the nation , he said, “I hope every citizen and in Dominica would have collected water and various necessary items. Again we don’t want anyone else to be in panic mode or overly anxious we must not take the system granted because it is very early. We will keep you updated as hours pass by.”

In addition to that he said, “Let us pray that storm passes the entire Caribbean without any impact on anything.”