VITEMA Monitoring a Tropical Wave Developing in the Atlantic;
Weather System Projected to Reach the Virgin Islands by Tuesday

According to the National Weather Service’s National Hurricane Center at Miami, the tropical wave is accompanied by a well-defined low pressure system and is continuing to show signs of organization. Environmental conditions are conducive for gradual development over the next few days.

On Friday morning, VITEMA held a conference call with the National Weather Service which informed VITEMA Director Elton Lewis that this system currently has a medium chance, 30 percent, of becoming a tropical storm during the next 48 hours as it moves westward or west-northwest at 15 to 20 mph. According to the National Weather Service, early projections show this system reaching the Virgin Islands by Tuesday and, based on its current behavior, bringing significant rainfall and strong winds. 

VITEMA has placed its Emergency Operations Centers on high alert for possible activation this weekend, as it continues to monitor the system for development. The public is being urged to stay informed and to begin assessing preparations for storm impact.

“At this point, individuals, families and businesses also should be monitoring this system and beginning to look at how prepared they are and making sure that they’re ready before a storm strikes,” Lewis said. “Everyone should have an emergency plan for staying in contact with family in the event of a disaster and an emergency supply kit with essential items to last for up to three days.” 

For more preparedness information visit our Hurricane Preparedness Section. Residents are also encouraged to sign up for VI-ALERT to receive the latest weather-related alerts and warnings via email, phone or text.

VITEMA will continue to keep the public informed of this developing system and is also urging everyone to stay tuned to local radio, TV, NOAA weather radio and VI Alert for updated information, watches and warnings.

###