Tropical Storm Tammy forms, Caribbean on alert
As Tropical Storm Tammy looms in the Atlantic, currently at 425 miles east-southeast of Guadeloupe, the Caribbean is advised be on alert for its 19th storm for the season.
While the storm is presently moving westward, meteorologists predict a gradual turn to the west-northwest in the coming day.
With maximum sustained winds at around 60 mph, accompanied by higher gusts, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) anticipates that Tammy will strengthen as it approaches the Leeward Islands. It’s important to note, however, that the storm is not expected to reach hurricane status while affecting the Lesser Antilles.
Given its proximity to the Caribbean islands, Tropical Storm Watches have already been issued, and further watches and warnings are expected to be issued as the situation unfolds.
Currently, a Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Barbados, Dominica, Martinique and Guadeloupe, Antigua & Barbuda, Montserrat, and St. Kitts & Nevis.
Each of these island has its own preparedness and response mechanisms in place to deal with such natural disasters.
Antigua & Barbuda, for example, maintains a National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) that oversees disaster preparedness and response.
Dominica has taken significant steps to enhance the resilience of its housing infrastructure in the face of climate-related challenges, with MMC Development Ltd. leading the construction of thousands of climate-resilient residential units and other public buildings.
Also, the twin-island nation of St. Kitts & Nevis has a National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) responsible for disaster preparedness and response.
Notably, Puerto Rico is not included in the watch areas. Instead, the island can anticipate squally weather conditions over the upcoming weekend.
A Tropical Storm Watch is typically issued when sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph are possible within the next 48 hours. These winds can be accompanied by storm surge and coastal flooding, making it crucial for residents and authorities to stay informed and prepared. As Tropical Storm Tammy progresses, it will be closely monitored, and further updates will be provided as needed.