BMS issues severe thunderstorm and flash-flood warnings for Barbados

Severe thunderstorm and flash-flood warnings are currently in effect for Barbados.

The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) said both alerts are valid from 6 a.m. today and will be updated at noon or sooner if conditions warrant.

A severe-thunderstorm watch is issued when significant lightning activity is possible within the watch area (generally within 6 hours).

Occasional lightning activity associated with widespread thunderstorms were occurring during the early hours of this morning.

There is still the possibility of some further occasional thunderstorm activity during the early morning period.

Some lightning activity is possible in the near future or near your location. Increase likelihood of power outages if lightning strikes power utility infrastructure.

A flash-flood warning is issued when rapid flooding due to heavy or excessive rainfall in a short period of time (generally less than 6 hours) is occurring or is imminent in the warning area.

“Current rainfall accumulations of 1 to 2 inches have already been recorded across the island. Further rainfall accumulations of 1 to 2 inches in heavy to violent showers are expected as the inter-tropical convergence zone continues to affect the island,” the BMS stated.