Kalain Hosein
Meteorologist/Reporter
Amidst heavy rainfall overnight last night into this morning, the TTMS issued an Adverse Weather Alert (Yellow Level) at 6:14 AM today due to, “Forecast rainfall this morning, combined with accumulations over the past several hours, significantly increases the risk of localized flooding and landslides.”
According to the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government, flooding has been reported at Abattoir Road, Port of Spain, as well as South Quay in the vicinity of City Gate at 6:00 AM.
The alert, which went into effect at 6:20 AM remains in effect until 2:00 PM today for both islands, also warns of stronger winds. The Met Office explained, “Additionally, moderate to strong winds in the lower atmosphere may cause gusts near 55 kph in the vicinity of heavy downpours which can lead to falling debris or displace roofs and agitated seas.”
For a yellow-level, moderate alert, there is the potential for possible injuries, where behavioral changes are required to ensure safety. There may be minor damage to property, with income-earning temporarily disrupted and a couple of communities affected.
The TTMS is advising the public to avoid venturing into flood waters, secure loose outdoor objects and mariners should exercise added caution. They add that the public should monitor official updates.
The Met Office’s forecast for today calls for, “Cloudy conditions with occasional light or moderate showers/ rain over some areas, mainly during the morning. There is a 40-60% (medium) chance of heavy showers or the isolated thunderstorm activity. Conditions expected to gradually settle by evening into night despite few lingering showery spells. Gusty winds and street/ flash flooding can occur in the event of heavy showers or thunderstorms.”
This activity, based on the TTMS, is due to the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) interacting with the passage of a tropical wave today. The ITCZ is an area where trade winds meet in the Atlantic Ocean, leading to a band of cloudiness, showers and thunderstorms.