The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) has issued a flash-flood watch for the island as a tropical wave approaches.
Residents are advised to exercise caution as light to moderate showers are expected to develop through the afternoon, with conditions worsening overnight. The BMS warns that moderate to heavy rainfall could lead to flash flooding in vulnerable areas.
The watch, issued at 12:30 p.m., indicates a medium possibility of significant flooding. Water accumulation on roads and fields may cause travel delays and isolated diversions. Additionally, water levels in ponds and other bodies of water are expected to rise, with minor flooding possible along roads and storm drains.
Meteorologists caution that this watch could be escalated to a warning should conditions deteriorate rapidly.
Rainfall accumulation of between one and two inches is expected during the moderate to heavy showers tonight, with wet weather likely to continue throughout the week.
A flash-flood watch signifies that heavy rainfall over a short duration – typically less than six hours – could result in flash flooding within the designated area. While flooding is not guaranteed, the possibility requires heightened vigilance from the public and authorities.
The BMS plans to update the watch by 6 a.m. on Wednesday, 23rd July, or sooner if necessary.
Residents and visitors are advised to monitor updates from the Department of Emergency Management, BMS, Government Information Service, and local media, and to follow safety recommendations as the situation develops.
