US: Tropical Depression Karen gains strength as it heads to Puerto Rico September 24 /update 1

Event

The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) issued an advisory at 02:00 (local time) on Tuesday, September 24, ahead of the passage of Tropical Storm Karen. As of 02:00, Karen is located at 16.3°N 65.7°W (map here). The tropical storm is tracking north at 13 kph (8 mph) with maximum sustained winds of 55 kph (35 mph). Karen is expected to pass over Puerto Rico on Tuesday morning. A Tropical Storm warning remains in effect for the US Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, including Vieques and Culebra. A total of 5-10 cm (2-4 in) of rain are expected in Puerto Rico, whereas some isolated areas are expected to receive 20 cm (8 in).

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.