by Kevon Browne
St. Kitts and Nevis (WINN) – A Tropical Storm Watch was in effect for St. Kitts and Nevis and the rest of the Leeward Islands as of 5 a.m. October 19 because of the expected passage of Tropical Storm Tammy.
The weather advisory was updated to indicate that St. Kitts and Nevis and the other Leewards Islands are under a Tropical Storm warning With a Hurricane Watch advisory as Tropical Storm Tammy continues to intensify. (Updated 10/19/23 3:27 p.m.)
The general public is advised that tropical storm conditions are possible within the next 48 hours.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is urging residents to monitor the passage of Tammy.
A reconnaissance flight found that Tropical Storm Tammy was stronger than predictions, suggesting that the storm was intensifying.
According to forecasts, the Leewards are expected to start experiencing the effects of Tammy from late Friday, October 20, into early Saturday, October 21.
Tammy is moving toward the West at 17 miles per hour. A turn toward the West-Northwest is forecast tonight, followed by a turn toward the Northwest Friday or Saturday.
Tammy could be near hurricane intensity by the end of the weekend.
Maximum sustained winds are near 40 mph with higher gusts. Tropical Storm Force Winds extend up to 140 miles from the centre.
Peak winds are predicted to be close to hurricane strength, along with higher gusts. Also, showers are expected to move across the islands within 24 to 36 hours. Rainfall totals are predicted to be three to six inches over less than 24 hours.
Residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas should be prepared to move to higher grounds, as moderate flash flooding is possible. Residents near slopes should prepare to guard against mudslides.
NEMA suggests that mariners stay in port and seek safe anchorage. Seas have started deteriorating and will peak near 13 feet in the next 24 hours as Tammy moves closer to the islands.
