US: State of emergency declared in Puerto Rico as Tropical Storm Dorian approaches August 28 /update 2

Event

A Hurricane watch is in effect for Puerto Rico as of 20:00 (local time) on Tuesday, August 27, as Tropical Storm Dorian continues moving towards the island. According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Dorian is forecast to slowly strengthen as it moves through the Caribbean Sea towards Puerto Rico. The storm may reach hurricane strength before passing over western and central Puerto Rico on Wednesday, August 28 (map here). Rainfall totals are forecast between 10-15 cm (4-6 in) across the island and up to 20 cm (8 in) in isolated areas. Dorian is also expected to bring strong winds and dangerous swells, particularly along the southern coast.

Governor Wanda Vázquez Garced declared the state of emergency on Tuesday, and President Trump subsequently approved the declaration.

As of 02:00 on Wednesday, Dorian is located approximately 390 km (240 mi) southeast of Ponce. The storm is moving northwest at 20 kph (13 mph) with maximum sustained winds of 95 kph (60 mph). Flooding and damaging winds are possible across Puerto Rico through Wednesday. Associated transportation and business disruptions, as well as power outages, are also expected.

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.