The National Weather Service in San Juan, Puerto Rico, has issued heat warnings and advisories for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, citing dangerously high temperatures. Additionally, showers and thunderstorms are possible as a tropical wave moves through the region.
Excessive Heat Alerts in Effect
An “Extreme Heat Warning” is in effect for all lower-elevation and urban areas of Puerto Rico, and a “Heat Advisory” is in effect for Vieques, Culebra, and the U.S. Virgin Islands on Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., according to an update from the NWS.
According to information from the National Integrated Heat Health Information System, “An Extreme Heat Warning is issued when extremely dangerous heat conditions are expected or occurring, and a Heat Advisory is issued for dangerous heat conditions that are not expected to reach warning criteria.”
The temperature alerts are based on factors including the “heat index,” which is a measure of how hot it feels to the human body when relative humidity is combined with the actual air temperature.
Residents and visitors across the region are encouraged to remain hydrated and as cool as possible to prevent heat-related illnesses.
“This level of heat can affect those without adequate cooling or hydration, impacting vulnerable populations and infrastructure,” the NWS warned.
Local Forecast Details
Along with the anticipated hot weather, which is expected to persist throughout the week, the NWS predicts continued rainfall and thunderstorms on Monday as a tropical wave passes through the USVI and Puerto Rico. Drier conditions are forecast to occur on Tuesday.
“It is worth noting that the hot streak will persist, especially on days with only localized rainfall, such as this Thursday and Friday. Heat alerts are possible on these days,” the NWS explained.
“Additionally, a tropical wave will cross the region on Monday, maintaining abundant moisture and supporting increased showers and thunderstorms through late Monday night,” the NWS said.
Boaters and swimmers are advised to exercise caution due to wind-driven choppy seas and the potential for rip currents.
The NWS stated that the forecast for the end of the week remains unclear due to a more substantial tropical wave potentially approaching the islands. Computer models show conflicting outcomes that will become more defined in the coming days.
“The forecast for the weekend is a little uncertain,” the agency noted. “There is a stronger tropical wave that should move across the region. For now, Saturday has the highest chance of rain, and gusty winds can be anticipated too with the passage of the wave.”
Notably, the National Hurricane Center has not flagged any areas of interest across the Atlantic Basin for the next seven days. Nevertheless, it is crucial to remember that the forecast can change very quickly. USVI residents and visitors are encouraged to continue to remain prepared.
In addition to obtaining weather information, including details regarding current weather alerts from the NWS, the NHC, and NOAA, the local weather forecast for the U.S. Virgin Islands is regularly updated on the Source Weather Page and VI Source YouTube Channel. Individuals can also find helpful weather information and alerts from the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency.
