A Flash Flood Warning has been issued for low-lying and flood-prone areas of the British Virgin Islands, effective until midnight today, Wednesday 7 February 2024. This warning indicates that moderate to major flooding is either occurring or imminent in the specified areas, posing a serious threat to residents and property.
Residents residing in low-lying or flood-prone regions were strongly urged to promptly relocate to higher ground.
With the potential for moderate to major flooding, immediate precautions should be taken to safeguard life and property. Specifically, individuals living near streams, creeks, and flood-prone zones are advised to exercise caution.
The alert underscored the dangers of attempting to cross swiftly flowing waters, whether on foot or in a vehicle. With just one foot of flowing water having the potential to sweep a car off the road, residents are cautioned to be extremely vigilant. When encountering flooded roads, the recommendation is to exercise extreme caution, and if uncertainty arises, the wise decision is to turn around.
A frontal trough currently affecting the British Virgin Islands is responsible for the heavy showers. Over the last 24 hours, some areas have already experienced up to 4 inches of rainfall, with an additional 1 to 3 inches expected in the next 6 hours. This weather pattern heightens the risk of moderate to major flooding in low-lying and flood-prone regions.
The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services and the Department of Disaster Management continue to monitor the evolving weather situation.
Residents are urged to prioritize their safety and stay informed about the evolving weather situation.