Puerto Rico, USVI: Adverse weather forecast across the region through at least Nov. 13

Severe weather is forecast across Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands through at least Nov. 13. A tropical wave moving over the region is expected to bring heavy rainfall and thunderstorms to the islands over the coming days. Storms may be accompanied by strong wind gusts and lightning. Rough seas are also likely in coastal areas. Heavy downpours could lead to flash, urban, and riverine flooding in parts of the affected islands.

As of early Nov, 11, the US National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flash flood warnings for parts of eastern and northeastern Puerto Rico and Saint John and Saint Thomas islands in the US Virgin Islands. Flood advisories are also in place for parts of northeastern Puerto Rico and high surf advisories, small craft advisories, and rip current statements are in place for some coastal areas. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days, including the issuance of short-term flash flood warnings.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. If strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.