24 Sep 2019 | 09:31 AM UTC
US Virgin Islands: Tropical Depression Karen gains strength as it heads to the US Virgin Islands September 24 /update 1
Karen near tropical storm strength as it heads to the US Virgin Islands as of September 24; rain, wind, and associated disruptions expected
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 by the US Virgin Islands on Tuesday. A Tropical Storm warning remains in effect for the US Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. A total of 3-8 cm (1-3 in) of rain are expected in Leeward Islands, whereas some isolated areas are expected to receive 13 cm (5 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.
