safety steps

WHCA31 TAPA
TROPICAL CYCLONE INFORMATION STATEMENT
ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA METEOROLOGICAL SERVICE
9:40 PM ECT THURSDAY AUGUST 08 2024

…TROPICAL CYCLONE COULD AFFECT THE AREA…

The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service is monitoring the progress of a Tropical Wave, over the eastern half of the tropical north Atlantic.

The system could develop further and become a concern for the leeward islands and the British Virgin Islands next week Tuesday/Wednesday.

The tropical wave could become al98 in days, and perhaps go on to become a Tropical depression or tropical storm before reaching the Caribbean.

Hence, the system poses little to no threat to the Leeward Islands and the British Virgin Islands, at this time. The risk of wind, rainfall or seas is very low, so no action is required at this time other than monitoring.

At 8 pm ECT or 0000 UTC, a tropical wave was located about 1966 miles east-southeast of the Leeward Islands moving west to west-northwest at around 15 mph.

Maximum sustained winds are less than 25 mph with higher gusts. Strengthening is forecast and a Tropical Depression or Tropical Storm could form in seven days.

Formation could take place near or after it passes the northeast Caribbean. There Is a near-zero percent chance of formation in 48 hours and a 50 percent chance of formation in seven days.

No particular hazard is being forecast at this time as the system is still very far away with lots of room for a number of scenarios to play out. Also, the uncertainties are quite high for what will happen.

Please note that no alerts, watches or warnings are in effect for the area; however, this could change in 48 hours.

Residents should monitor this system closely and ensure their hurricane season plans are prepared. The next update will be around 2 pm tomorrow, or sooner if required.

Forecaster Dale Destin