A tropical storm warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected somewhere within the warning area within 36 hours.
According to officials from the meteorological office in St. Kitts, residents should hasten their preparations to avoid possible destruction from the approaching cyclone.
At 5:00 am on Tuesday 21st August, the center of the tropical depression was located near latitude 15.2 north longitude 51.2 west or 660 miles east of the Windward Islands, moving toward the west, near 20 mph, and this general motion is expected to continue for the next couple of days.
On the forecast track the cyclone should move through the southern Leeward Islands and northern Windward Islands on Wednesday afternoon and emerge over the Eastern Caribbean Sea by Thursday morning.
Maximum sustained winds are near 35 mph with higher gusts. Strengthening is forecast during the next 48 hours and the depression is expected to become a tropical storm later today.
Heavy rain and thunderstorms, accompanied by strong gusty winds are expected over the northern Leeward Islands early Wednesday.
Rain accumulations of 3 – 5 inches are possible over the northern Windward Islands and the Leeward Islands. This could lead to flash flooding in low lying areas. People living in those areas should protect themselves from such situations or move to higher ground.
Dangerous surf and rip current conditions will affect the Leeward Islands during the next couple of days. A large body of water will push ahead of the depression as it travels westward. Therefore, small craft operators should seek safe harbour and secure their boats properly. Sea bathers should avoid the beach, advised the officials.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Homeland Security Mr. Elvis Newton has urged residents of St. Kitts and Nevis to heed recent prediction by respected weather forecasters.
“Residents are asked to heed the updated information and take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of life and property. Listen to official weather updates,” said Mr. Newton.