An active low-level trough has moved across the Windwards, producing periods of rain, showers and thunderstorms. Stronger convection (showers, thunderstorms) are forecast for both islands through Monday afternoon. Severe impacts are now expected.
What you need to know
— Rainfall: Through the next 48 hours, broad periods of rain with isolated to scattered moderate to heavy showers and thunderstorms forecast, with higher totals favoring the eastern half of Trinidad, and interrupting cloudy skies. Rainfall totals between 25 and 75 millimeters are forecast across both islands over the next 48 hours, with locally higher amounts exceeding 100 millimeters.
— Hazards: Street, flash, and riverine flooding are very likely in heavier showers or thunderstorms. Wind gusts in excess of 55 KM/H accompanying heavy showers or thunderstorms are also possible during and ahead of heavy showers or thunderstorms. Localized wind damage, such as fallen trees, is possible. Lightning will accompany thunderstorms. Landslides are also possible, mainly across Tobago and northern/southern Trinidad.
Latest Alerts
Riverine Flood Alert Discontinued For South Trinidad
Adverse Weather Alert Discontinued. Heavy Rainfall Still Possible
The Adverse Weather Alert
The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service updated the Adverse Weather Alert (Yellow Level) on Thursday at 3:51 PM, upgrading it to Orange Level. The alert went into effect for Trinidad, Tobago, and surrounding marine areas from 5:00 AM Saturday, November 26th, 2022, and now remains in effect through 6:00 PM Monday, November 28th, 2022.
Trinidad and Tobago is not under any tropical storm watch or warning at this time.
“Rainfall and/or showers of varying intensities are expected to continue throughout the course of today, especially during the afternoon (Sunday 27th November). There is still a 70% – 80% (high) chance of heavy showers and thunderstorms,” according to the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service.
This “alert” status takes into account the possibility of the event occurring. This adverse weather event has been observed with the following impacts according to the TTMS:
- Rainfall greater than 25mm and in excess of this amount in isolated areas.
- Gusty winds in excess of 55 km/h may be experienced especially in the vicinity of heavy showers/thunderstorms.
- Street/flash flooding and localized ponding are also likely in heavy downpours.
- Seas can become agitated at times in sheltered areas.
- Landslides/landslips are also possible in areas so prone.
The color of the alert indicates the severity of the event and the probability of the event occurring. Currently, the alert level is Orange. This means that the hazard has been observed, and you need to be aware of the impacts of street, flash, and riverine flooding in your area, as well as gusty winds in excess of 55 KM/H, and landslides. Severe impacts are expected.
For a severe Adverse Weather Alert, there is the potential for a loss of a single life or serious injuries; physical defenses are needed, major losses are possible in confined areas, income earning is impossible for several days, and several communities are affected where external help is needed for recovery.
The public should finalize preparations to protect lives, livelihoods, and property, activate your safety plan, secure food, water, and medicine for at least 7 days in waterproof containers, and protect important assets and documents. Do not take unnecessary risks. Follow the instructions of government officials. Monitor official sources for information and secure loose outdoor items and livestock.
