29th June, 2024
NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES IS UNDER A HURRICANE WATCH
At 11:00 a.m. today, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Meteorological Services issued a Hurricane Watch for St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This means that sustained winds of 74 mph (119kmh) or greater are expected across St. Vincent and the Grenadines within 48 hours.
At 11 am, the center of the Tropical Storm (TS) Beryl was located near latitude 10.0° north; longitude 47.8° west, or approximately 930 miles (1497 kilometers) east of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines. TS Beryl is moving toward the west at 23mph (37km/h) with maximum sustained winds of 65mph (105km/h) with higher gusts. Minimum Central Pressure 998mb or 29.47 inches
Beryl is expected to become a hurricane by tonight or Sunday…Tropical Storm conditions are possible across St. Vincent and the Grenadines by Sunday night and major Hurricane conditions (above Category 2) are possible across St. Vincent and the Grenadines by Monday morning. Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 45 miles (72 km) from the center.
Some of the possible impacts or effect are:
- Maximum sustained winds of 74 -110 mph (119 -177 kmph) or greater are expected across St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
- Rainfall accumulations of 4 to 6 inches (100 to 150mm) and higher amounts are likely across St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
- Marine conditions are expected to be very rough and hazardous with sea-swells exceeding 4.0m (13ft) and possibly higher ~8.0m (26ft), near the center of ‘Beryl’ during Monday. Large and destructive waves/swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip currents as swell as storm surge are possible across SVG.
Also of concern is a disturbance that is located over the Eastern Atlantic, with a 60% chance of development and tracking near our area by Wednesday 3rd July, 2024
The National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) is appealing to the public to be prepared. Residents living in areas prone to flooding, landslide and storm surge are asked to put plans in place to be able to evacuate at short notice if it becomes necessary. Residents and owners and operators of businesses are asked to activate their Family Emergency and Business Continuity Plans. All heads of public and private sector entities are asked to activate their plans and take actions to secure workstation and other important assets. The National Emergency Management Organisation will continue to provide updates from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Meteorological Services.
-END-
Preparedness Tips
Trim or cut all overhanging trees and branches.
Clean or clear all drains around your house.
Ensure that your roof is securely fastened.
Ensure that you have emergency supplies.
Have extra clean containers available to store water.
Ensure that you have water and food to last for three days or longer.
Make arrangements to shelter with friends and family.
Ensure that you have a plan for your family in the event of an emergency.
Fisherfolks and small craft operators are asked to prepare a plan to secure boats and fishing gears.
Sea bathers should be extra cautious and avoid swimming in rough sea conditions.