SOURCE: NOAA – 11:00 PM AST, Thursday, June 22, 2023. Tropical Storm Bret is intensifying near St. Vincent, bringing with it the potential for heavy rainfall and strong winds to impact portions of the Lesser Antilles.
The storm, positioned at latitude 13.3 North and longitude 61.1 West, is moving steadily westward at a speed of 18 mph (30 km/h).
As the situation unfolds, residents in the region are advised to stay informed and prepared.
Here is a comprehensive summary of the latest information provided by the National Hurricane Center (NHC):
Location and Intensity
Tropical Storm Bret’s center is presently located approximately 5 miles (10 km) east of St. Vincent and 35 miles (55 km) south of St. Lucia.
The storm’s maximum sustained winds have increased to 60 mph (95 km/h) with higher gusts.
Experts anticipate a gradual weakening trend over the next few days, and it is likely that the system will dissipate over the central Caribbean Sea on Saturday night or Sunday.
The minimum central pressure is currently measured at 1004 millibars or 29.65 inches.
Watches and Warnings
A series of watches and warnings have been issued in anticipation of Tropical Storm Bret’s impact.
The Government of St. Lucia has discontinued the Hurricane Watch for St. Lucia. However, the following areas remain under a Tropical Storm Warning:
- Dominica
- St. Lucia
- Martinique
- Barbados
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines
A Tropical Storm Warning indicates that tropical storm conditions are expected within the warning area, likely to occur within the next 24 hours. Residents within the warned areas should remain cautious and prepared for potential impacts.
Interests in other parts of the Lesser Antilles and the southeastern Caribbean Sea are advised to closely monitor the progress of Tropical Storm Bret.
Stay informed by regularly checking updates from your national meteorological service.
Discussion and Outlook Tropical Storm Bret is currently on a westward track, and this general motion is expected to persist over the next couple of days.
The storm is forecasted to pass through and move away from the Windward Islands in the next few hours, then proceed westward across the eastern and central Caribbean Sea on Friday and Saturday.
Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 115 miles (185 km) from the storm’s center.
Reports from St. Lucia’s Hewanorra International Airport indicate sustained winds of 41 mph (67 km/h) and a gust of 69 mph (111 km/h). Martinique is also experiencing tropical-storm conditions.
Hazards Affecting Land Tropical Storm Bret poses several hazards to the affected regions:
- Winds: Tropical storm conditions are expected within the areas under the tropical storm warning through tonight.
- Rainfall: Heavy rainfall is a significant concern, with total amounts ranging from 3 to 6 inches and the potential for maximum amounts of up to 10 inches across parts of the Lesser Antilles. This includes Guadeloupe, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Barbados. Flash flooding is possible, particularly in areas with higher terrain, and urban flooding is also a risk.
- Surf: Swells generated by Tropical Storm Bret will impact portions of the Lesser Antilles until Friday, leading to life-threatening surf and rip current conditions. It is essential to consult local weather office products for specific information.
Remember, preparedness and caution are key during tropical storms.
By staying informed, taking necessary precautions, and supporting each other, residents in the affected areas can mitigate risks and ensure their safety and well-being.
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