BMS downgrades warnings to watches

The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) has downgraded the severe-thunderstorm warning and the flash-flood warning to watches.

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

Hazard Info

The immediate threat of severe-thunderstorm activity has diminished during the early afternoon.

Throughout the afternoon, Barbados will remain under the influence of the flow into Hurricane Tammy. As a result, another feeder band can develop leading to another session of intense shower and  thunderstorm activity across the island.

Key Messages

• Expect some lightning activity in the near future or near your location.
• Increase likelihood of power outages if lightning strikes power utility infrastructure.

Meanwhile, a flash-flood watch is issued when heavy or excessive rainfall in a short period of time (generally less than six hours) could result in flash flooding within the watch area. It does not mean that flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Hazard Info

The immediate threat of excessive rainfall has diminished during the early afternoon.

Rainfall accumulations of up to five inches have occurred across the island throughout the morning. Additional rainfall accumulations of one to two inches are possible throughout the afternoon as Barbados remains under the influence of the flow into Hurricane Tammy.

As a result, another feeder band can develop leading to another session of intense shower and thunderstorm activity across the island.

Key Messages:

• Continue to monitor the official updates provided by the BMS.
• This watch could be upgraded to a warning at short notice.

Possible moderate to significant:-

• Soil erosion on bared or scarred land surfaces.
• Water settlements on roads and fields which may lead to commuting delays and possible isolated diversions.
• Increases in water levels of existing water bodies (e.g ponds etc.).
• Invasive excess water on roads, fields, storm drains/water canals and on property.
• Residents and visitors should also be aware that this alert level could elevate to red.