20 Jun 2023 | 10:23 AM UTC
North Atlantic Ocean: Tropical Storm Bret forms and is tracking westward in the southern North Atlantic Ocean early June 20
TS Bret tracking westward in the southern North Atlantic Ocean early June 20. Forecast to approach the Lesser Antilles early June 23.
Event
Tropical Storm Bret formed in the southern North Atlantic Ocean on June 19 and is tracking westward early June 20. As of 05:00 AST, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 1,815 km (1,130 miles) east of the southern Windward Islands.
Forecast models indicate the system will strengthen into a Category 1 Hurricane as it tracks west-northwestward across the southern North Atlantic Ocean June 20-22. Bret is then expected to weaken back into a tropical storm as it approaches the southern Leeward Islands and the northern Windward Islands early June 23. The system is currently forecast to pass just south of Martinique early June 23 before continuing to weaken slightly as it tracks west-northwestward and then northwestward across the central Caribbean Sea June 23-25. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur in the coming days.
As of 05:00 AST June 20, authorities have not yet issued any watches or warnings in relation to the storm. Authorities have warned of a risk of flooding from heavy rainfall, strong winds, and dangerous storm surge and waves across parts of the Lesser Antilles June 22-23. The location of the impacted areas will depend on the storm's progression over the next few days. Officials could issue new warnings and/or watches in response to the developing system in the coming hours.
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 trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions, rendering some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters pose a serious health threat.
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.
