07 Jul 2017 | 09:35 AM UTC
Caribbean: Tropical depression approaching region
Tropical depression approaching the northern Lesser Antilles; no landfall predicted but heavy rain likely
Event
A tropical depression, currently located over the Atlantic Ocean, is moving towards the Lesser Antilles as of Friday, July 7. According to the US-based National Hurricane Center’s current predictions, the storm system is expected to pass north of the island chain, near Antigua and Barbuda. While no landfall is currently predicted, the depression could bring torrential rains to these islands July 7-9, and to a lesser extent islands further south (e.g. Dominica, Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Barbados) as well as to Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. If the system does not dissipate, it could potentially make landfall in the Bahamas sometime early next week (e.g. around July 11).
Heavy rain could result in flooding (particularly in coastal, low-lying, and river adjacent areas) as well as landslides in hilly areas. Power outages and transportation disruptions are also possible.
Context
Tropical storms are common in the Caribbean region during the Atlantic Hurricane Season, which runs from June 1 to November 30.
Advice
Individuals in the above areas are advised to follow local weather forecasts and adhere to any advice issued by regional authorities (e.g. potential evacuation orders). In the event of flooding, keep in mind that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.
