23 Jun 2023 | 12:39 AM UTC
North Atlantic Ocean: Tropical Storm Bret tracking westward in the southern North Atlantic Ocean the evening of June 22 /update 3
TS Bret tracking westward in the southern North Atlantic Ocean with close approach to Lesser Antilles late June 22.
Event
Tropical Storm Bret is tracking westward in the southern North Atlantic Ocean during the evening of June 22. As of 17:00 AST, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 25 km (15 miles) north-northwest of Barbados.
Forecast models indicate the system will weaken as it tracks generally westward and makes a close approach to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, as well as Saint Lucia, late June 22, passing between the two island nations. The system is forecast to weaken further as it subsequently moves westward across the central Caribbean Sea June 23-24; the storm will likely dissipate over the central Caribbean Sea by early June 25. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur in the coming days.
As of 17:00 AST June 22, authorities have issued a hurricane watch for Saint Lucia and tropical storm warnings for Barbados, Dominica, Martinique, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Saint Lucia. Officials could issue new warnings and/or watches in response to the developing system in the coming hours.
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 22-24. Rainfall totals of 7.5-15 cm (3-6 inches) with localized maximums of around 25 cm (10 inches) are possible across parts of the Lesser Antilles from Guadeloupe south to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, including Barbados, through June 24. The heavy rainfall could lead to flash flooding, especially at higher elevations. Urban flooding is also possible. Swells generated by Bret are forecast to affect portions of the Lesser Antilles through June 23; life-threatening surf and rip current conditions are likely.
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. Officials in Saint Lucia and Martinique closed schools and airports on June 22 ahead of the storm's arrival. In Saint Lucia, businesses and government offices also closed starting at 13:00.
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.
