Kalain Hosein
Meteorologist/Reporter
kalain.hosein@guardian.co.tt
The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service (TTMS) says a gradual deterioration of conditions is forecast this evening across the country, with a Hurricane Warning in effect for Tobago and a Tropical Storm Watch in effect for Trinidad.
A Tropical Storm Watch, in the case of Trinidad, means that tropical storm conditions, including sustained winds of 63-118 KM/H, are possible somewhere within the watch area within the next 18 hours. A Hurricane Watch, in the case of Tobago, means there is a higher potential for hurricane conditions, including sustained winds in excess of 118 KM/H, within the warning area, in this case within the next 18 hours.
According to the TTMS, “Tobago can expect a gradual deterioration in conditions beginning with periods of showers and gusty winds in excess of 65 KM/H beginning from early evening today. Sea conditions are also expected to deteriorate with large battering waves affecting all coastlines of the island beginning by late afternoon today.”
For Trinidad, the Met Office says, “By 6:00 PM this evening, sea conditions are expected to become rough with large, battering waves. Heavier rainfall and thunderstorm activity are anticipated towards midnight. Strong wind gusts in excess of 55 KM/H, may be experienced ahead of Beryl from this evening.”
As of 2:00 PM, Hurricane Beryl was centred near 10.9N 55.6W, approximately 542 kilometres east-southeast of Tobago, moving westward at 33 KM/H. As Beryl approaches the southern Windwards, there is a high chance (80%) of hurricane-force winds impacting Tobago from early morning Monday 01st July, according to the Met Office.
The Met Office is warning Tobagonians of the following: “Take immediate actions to protect their lives, livelihoods, and property. Shelter in place or evacuate to a safe location if your home is unsafe or vulnerable to flooding or wind damage. Secure food, water and medicine for at least seven days in waterproof containers. Outdoor drains should be clear and loose objects secured by now. Sandbags should be near all entrances to your home. Monitor official news sources.”
Meanwhile, for Trinidad, the Met Office says the public should, “prepare for the possibility of tropical storm conditions. Have systems in place to protect lives, livelihood, and property. Secure loose outdoor objects and livestock. Marine interests should exercise extra caution.”
Both the Tropical Storm Watch and Hurricane Warning are scheduled to end at noon, Monday, July 1st, 2024.