Cape Verde: Hurricane Helene to bring wind, rain September 11 /update 2

Event

According to the US National Hurricane Center (NHC), Hurricane Helene is currently located 995 km (620 mi) west of the southern part of the Cape Verde islands as of Tuesday morning, September 11 (local time). Helene will pass west of the islands without making landfall. However, the storm system is expected to bring hazardous winds and heavy rain to the islands through late Tuesday. Maximum sustained winds of 175 km/h (110 mph) are forecast. Consequent flash flooding and transportation disruptions are possible in Cape Verde over the coming hours. 

Context

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with the largest concentration of storms typically occurring between August and October. Weather experts are predicting a slightly below-average hurricane season for 2018.

Advice

Individuals present in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate strong winds and heavy rain (and associated disruptions), and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all food discarded.