Tropical Storm Watch Remains in Effect for Barbados as Hurricane Tammy Passes to the North

Hurricane Tammy has passed to the north, but a tropical storm watch remains in effect for Barbados.

A tropical storm watch is issued when sustained winds of 34 to 63 knots (39 to 73 mph; 63 to 118kmh) associated with a tropical storm or hurricane are possible in the watch area within the next 48 hours.

At 5 p.m., the centre of Hurricane Tammy was located near 14.3N 59.2W, or approximately 85 miles (130km) north of Barbados.

Maximum sustained winds remain near 75mph (120km/h). Tammy continues to slowly move toward the west-northwest at 7mph) (11km/h) with a minimum central pressure of 991mb.

Sea swells of over 3.0 m have been observed to the southeast of the island. Swells of 2.5m to 3.5m are expected to continue into tonight.

As a result, the small craft warning has been extended until 6 a.m. Saturday and the high surf advisory remains in effect for Barbados.

Occasional winds gusting to storm force in moderate to heavy showers associated with feeder bands are possible into tonight. Rainfall accumulations of around one to three inches with isolated higher amounts are likely as the system moves northwest of the island.

Any intensification of feeder bands to the south and southeast of the system can result in the watch being upgraded to a warning at short notice.

The public is urged to continue to monitor the progress of this system through updates issued by the Barbados Meteorological Services and follow the guidance and recommendations provided by the Department of Emergency Management.

The next advisory will be issued at 8 p.m. (PR/SAT)