27 June, 11am:
A tropical wave located several hundred miles west-southwest of the Cabo Verde Islands is likely to strengthen as it heads west across the Atlantic, according to forecasters.
The weather system continues to produce disorganised shower and thunderstorm activity, the National Hurricane Center said in a weather outlook on 27 June.
“Environmental conditions are forecast to be conducive, and development of this system is anticipated,” it added.
A tropical depression or tropical storm is likely to form several hundred miles east of the Windward Islands the weekend of 29 June while the system moves westward at 15 to 20 miles per hour.
The centre said the chance of a cyclone forming within 48 hours is medium at 40%, while the chance of formation within seven days is high at 70%.
Impact unknown
In a Facebook post, the Disaster Management Coordination Agency (DMCA) urged residents to keep an eye out for updates as Montserrat is on the edge of the forecast cone of uncertainty.
“The system is still days away and will likely be a tropical storm or hurricane when it reaches close to the region.
“However, it’s still too early to know whether or not the disturbance will impact the island.
“DMCA would like to advise residents to be prepared, remain vigilant and monitor the system,” the post said.
Above average
In May, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicted an above normal Atlantic hurricane season. This takes place from June 1 to November 30.
Experts forecast a range of 17 to 25 total named storms with winds of 39 miles per hour or higher. They expect eight to 13 to become hurricanes, with winds of 74 miles per hour or higher.
Of those, they have forecast four to seven to be major hurricanes, of category three, four or five, with winds of 111 miles per hour or higher.
DMCA director Alvin Ryan, who addressed the public in a Facebook video message on 1 June, urged residents to be prepared.
“Action now can really help reduce the impacts of storms on our communities, reduce damage to property, and most importantly, save lives, which is the ultimate goal,” he said.
“Remember, it only takes one.”
Information on how to prepare for a hurricane is available in the DMCA’s 2024 Hurricane Preparedness Guide here.
Visit the National Hurricane Center for the latest weather updates at www.nhc.noaa.gov
