Tropical depression two forms; could be storm tomorrow

Barbados could be under a tropical storm watch by tomorrow morning.

The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) said the tropical wave it has been keeping an eye on has developed into tropical depression two, 1 225 miles east-southeast of Barbados.

“The tropical depression has shown significant signs of organisation over the past few hours and is likely to be upgraded to a tropical storm by tomorrow as it moves towards the west at 17 mph,” the BMS said in a statement this evening. “Maximum sustained winds are near 35 mph. Model consensus continues to track the system just south of Barbados early Monday.”

“A tropical storm watch may be issued by Saturday morning,” it added.

The system is expected to affect the island late Sunday night into Monday.

“As a result, there is the possibility of flash flooding and storm-force winds impacting the island during that time. Additionally, a small craft and high surf warning are currently in effect for above-normal sea swells,” the Met Office said.

The public is encouraged to monitor the BMS, DEM and GIS websites and their respective social media networks for further updates.