19 Sep 2019 | 05:01 AM UTC
Saint Martin: Tropical Storm Jerry forecast to pass north of Leeward Islands September 19-21
Tropical Storm Jerry is forecast to pass north of northern Leeward Islands between September 19-21; heavy rain, flooding, strong winds, and associated disruptions expected
Event
The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) issued an advisory at 23:00 (local time) on Wednesday, September 18, ahead of the passage of Tropical Storm Jerry. As of 23:00, Jerry is located at 15.4°N 51.8°W (map here). The tropical storm is tracking west-northwest at 24 kph (15 mph) with maximum sustained winds of 105 kph (65 mph). Jerry is expected to strengthen to a hurricane on Thursday, September 19, before passing north of the northern Leeward Islands on Friday, September 20. A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Barbuda, Anguilla, Sint Maarten, Saint Martin, Saint Barthelemy, Saba, and Sint Eustatius, with Jerry forecast to bring strong winds and heavy rain to the islands.
Associated power outages and disruptions to transportation and business services are possible in areas forecast to be affected by the system over the coming days.
Advice
Individuals in areas forecast to be affected by the system are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm flight reservations, 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.