Storm Watch – Tropical Storm Dorian 8p.m. update

A Tropical Storm Warning in this case means that tropical storm conditions are imminent or already occurring.

At 8p.m. Tropical Storm Dorian was centered near 13.0N, 59.1W which means that the center of the system is about now, passing to the south of Barbados.

Maximum sustained winds are near 60 mph (95km/h), with tropical-storm-force winds extending outward up to 45 miles (75 km) from the center. The minimum central pressure has increased to 1007mb (29.74 inches). The system continues to move towards the west-northwest at 14 mph (22 km/h).

Wind speeds across the island have increased over the past six hours, with surface winds of 50 to 60mph (85 to 97km/h) with higher gusts still expected to spread across Barbados during the night and early tomorrow morning.

Cloudy to overcast skies and scattered showers have already started to affect the island, with pockets of moderate to heavy showers, periods of rain and scattered thunderstorms still expected as the night progresses. Rainfall accumulations of at least four to six inches (100 to 150 mm) are likely with the possibility of higher isolated amounts. As a result, some flash-flooding is likely in low-lying areas and residents are urged to be on the alert and take all necessary precautions.

Large easterly to south-easterly swells of 2.5 to 3.5m (8 to 12ft) are also forecast to accompany the system. Low-lying coastlines around the island will be particularly vulnerable at times of high tide. Large waves and dangerous rip-tides can be expected. These will create unsafe conditions for small-craft operators and fishermen. Sea-bathers and other users of the sea are also advised to stay out of the water.

Thus, a High-Surf Advisory and Small-Craft Warning remains in effect until 6a.m.tomorrow.

A Small-craft Warning means that, in this case, mean wind-speeds of 43 to 52 knots (80 to 97 km/h) and/or seas equal to or greater than 3m (10ft) will be affecting the marine area.

A High-Surf Advisory is issued when breaking wave action poses a threat to life and property within the surf zone.

The next intermediate advisory will be issued at 11p.m.