Hurricane Beryl is moving west and is expected to pass north of Barbados sometime between Sunday night and Monday morning. While the centre of the system is not expected to pass over the island on the current projected track, any southward deviation from may require the issuance of a Watch or Warning for Barbados at short notice.
This is based on the latest update from Barbados Meteorological Services issued at noon today.
Heavy rains, with 1 to 2 inches of rainfall and occasional gusty winds are forecast as the system passes to the north of the island from Sunday night into Monday. Marine conditions are also expected to deteriorate by Sunday afternoon with sea-swells expected to range between 3.0 and 4.0 metres (10 – 13 feet).
As a consequence, a High-surf Advisory and Small-craft warning will go into effect from 6 p.m. Saturday, July 7 until 6 a.m. Monday, July 9. A High-Surf Advisory is issued when breaking wave action poses a threat to life and property within the surf zone.
Large waves and dangerous rip-currents can be expected which will create unsafe conditions for small-craft operators.
Sea-bathers and other users of the sea are also advised to stay out of the water during that time. This activity may become even more adverse at times of high tide.
A small-craft warning means in this case that seas equal to or greater than 3m (10ft) and wind speeds of 25 to 33 knots (47 to 61 km/h) will be affecting the marine area.
At 11 a.m. Hurricane Beryl was located near 10.7N., 46.5W or about 940 miles (1510 km) to the east of Barbados with maximum sustained winds near 80mph /130 km/h, with a minimal central pressure of 994mb or 29.36 inches.
The Barbados Meteorological Services continues to monitor the progress of Hurricane Beryl over the central Atlantic. (PR)
