TROPICAL STORM WARNING ISSUED FOR ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
A Tropical Storm Warning is now in effect for St. Vincent and the Grenadines. A release from the Meteorological Office states: At 11:00 am the centre of tropical Storm Matthew was located near latitude 13.4 N 60.7 W or about 35 miles east northeast of St Vincent.
Tropical Storm Matthew is moving towards the west at 21mph. This westward motion with some decrease in forward speed is expected during the next 24- 48 hours. The maximum sustained winds are 60 mph and the minimum central pressure is 1008 millibars. St. Vincent and the Grenadines is expected to begin feeling the impacts of the storm by 1:30pm today.
On the forecast track, the center of Matthew will move through the Windward Islands during the next couple of hours, and move over the eastern Caribbean Sea through Friday. Environmental conditions are conducive for some gradual strengthening over the next
12 – 24 hours.
Rainfall accumulations of 4 to 8 inches (100 to 200 millimeters) are possible with higher amounts likely in mountainous areas. In addition, sea swells of 3 to 4 meters (9 to 12 feet) are also likely. A full shut down of all activities – public service and business is with immediate effect.
The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) is fully activated. All emergency shelters are to remain open.
The E. T. Joshua Airport is closed until further notice.
Residents in flood prone and low-lying areas are asked to take the necessary precautions as Tropical Storm Matthew can generate heavy rainfall and flooding.
The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Meteorological Services will continue to provide the necessary updates on Tropical Storm Matthew and the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) will continue to provide updates.
