Cape Verde: Tropical storm warning issued September 7 /update 1

Event

Tropical Depression Eight has formed off the coast of West Africa, prompting the US-based National Hurricane Center to issue tropical storm warnings for parts of Cape Verde as of the evening (local time) of Friday, September 7. As of 20:00 on Friday, tropical storm warnings were in effect for Santiago, Fogo, and Brava, with tropical storm conditions forecast to begin affecting these areas by late on Saturday, September 8, or on Sunday, September 9.

Tropical Depression Eight was packing maximum sustained winds of nearly 55 km/h (35 mph) as of Friday evening and it is expected to strengthen in the coming hours and days. The storm is forecast to bring rainfall totals of 8-13 cm (3-5 in) to Cape Verde, with higher totals of up to 20 cm (8 in) expected across the southern Cape Verdean islands. Consequent flash flooding, transportation disruptions, and power outages are possible in Cape Verde over the coming days.

Context

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with the largest concentration of storms typically occurring between August and October. Weather experts are predicting a slightly below-average hurricane season for 2018.

Advice

Individuals present in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate strong winds and heavy rain (and associated disruptions), and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all food discarded.