St. Lucia: National shutdown ahead of Tropical Storm Dorian August 26 /update 1

Event

The Saint Lucian government has ordered a mandatory national shutdown effective 18:00 (local time) on Monday, August 26, ahead of inclement weather brought on by Tropical Storm Dorian. As of Monday evening, the storm has maximum sustained winds of 95 kph (60 mph) and tropical storm conditions, including strong winds and swells, are forecast in the region. The storm is expected to intensify to near hurricane strength overnight from Monday into Tuesday, August 27, and is predicted to pass over the south of the island around 02:00 on Tuesday (map here). The island is expected to receive as much as 25 cm (10 in) of rainfall in some areas.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult - and never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.