24 Jun 2023 | 04:50 AM UTC
Carribean Sea: Tropical Storm Bret tracking westward northeast of Curacao late June 23 /update 5
TS Bret tracking westward in the eastern Caribbean Sea late June 23. Adverse weather ongoing in Windward Islands.
Event
Tropical Storm Bret is tracking westward in the eastern Caribbean Sea late June 23. As of 23:00 AST, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 120 km (75 miles) northeast of Curacao.
Forecast models indicate the system will weaken as it tracks generally westward across the eastern and central Caribbean Sea through June 24, passing just north of the ABC Islands early June 24 and just north of the northeastern tip of Colombia the afternoon of June 24; the storm will likely dissipate over the central Caribbean Sea by late June 24. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur in the coming days.
As of 23:00 AST on June 23, authorities have rescinded all coastal watches and warnings. Officials could issue new warnings and/or watches in response to the system in the coming hours. Authorities have warned that rainfall is forecast to continue to diminish across the Lesser Antilles late June 23. Swells, that can cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions, are likely to increase in areas adjacent to the central Caribbean Sea through June 24.
Reports indicate that around 150 people in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines have evacuated to shelters as of June 23. The storm has resulted in considerable damage, with coastal areas, especially Owia and Colonarie, the worst hit. Additional evacuations are ongoing as seawater has flooded multiple homes in Colonarie, a village south of Georgetown. Almost half of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are without power.
Saint Lucia and Martinique shut down schools and nurseries ahead of the storm. Authorities restored power to most of Saint Lucia after weather conditions improved.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. Localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible if weather conditions prove hazardous.
The inclement weather could render some bridges and roadways impassable, triggering localized business, transport, and utility disruptions. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary closures of seaports are also possible.
Advice
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast hurricane or tropical storm conditions. Heed any evacuation orders that may be issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for severe flooding and storm surge. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.
Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the path of the storm, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.
