Heavy rain with flooding is possible across portions of Puerto Rico and the USVI during the middle of the week. Seas are also forecast to become hazardous.
The potential incoming precipitation is associated with a trough (an extended region) of low pressure that is predicted to move off the southeast of the U.S. mainland. As the trough passes across the USVI and Puerto Rico, moisture to the south is expected to be drawn up and over the islands.
“A deep layered trough and accompanying frontal boundary will approach the islands by late Monday into Tuesday, pulling moisture from the south into the local islands,” according to an update on Sunday from the National Weather Service in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
“This will increase the risk for flooding, rapid river rises, and mudslides across Puerto Rico and in the U.S. Virgin Islands,” the NWS update continued.
The NWS has noted that the bulk of rainfall will occur on Tuesday and Wednesday, and approximately two to four inches of rain is expected, with locally higher amounts. However, precipitation may continue through the second half of the week, with the continued possibility of flash flooding and mudslides.
“Based on the latest guidance, squally [and severe] weather will begin over Puerto Rico as soon as Monday night or very early on Tuesday,” the NWS update said. “The swath of moisture will spread eastward toward most of Puerto Rico and reach the U.S. Virgin Islands by late Tuesday. So far, the strongest showers and thunderstorms are expected on Tuesday and Wednesday. Still, some of this activity could linger on Thursday over Puerto Rico and early Friday over the Virgin Islands,” the update warned.
Seas are also projected to begin to deteriorate due to a northerly swell and gusty winds. Marine weather alerts may be issued as the week progresses.
Be Prepared
Individuals can be caught off-guard when a flash flood starts, including while driving in a vehicle, as described in a recent Source article regarding flash flood safety. If flooding occurs while driving, the NWS offers the following tips to stay safe.
“Never drive your car into water of unknown depth. Most flash flood deaths occur when people drive their vehicles into flood waters. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown,” the NWS advised.
In the event of a mudslide or a landslide, the United States Geographical Survey recommends staying alert and remaining as far away from a debris flow as possible. Additional safety advice is available on the USGS official website.
Stay Informed
USVI residents and visitors can find additional information about the weather, including severe weather alerts and marine weather updates, from the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency website and the National Weather Service.
A daily weather post is also published on the Source Weather Page, where readers can view weather forecast videos.
