18TH August 2020 – The National Hurricane Centre is monitoring Invest 98L/Disturbance 2 as it moves across the Atlantic. The system is showing signs of development and they have increased this possibly to 70% in 48 hours. It may become a depression very soon. Residents should continue to monitor the progress of the disturbance as current model forecasts are showing it has a high probability of passing very near to the British Virgin Islands.
Disturbance 1is located along 38.0W, or about 2188 miles east of south east of the British Virgin Islands. It is moving to the west-northwest near 20-25 mph and this motion is forecast to continue over the next 5-7 days. The disturbance could be in the vicinity of the northern Leeward Islands late Friday or on Saturday.
Beyond then, there is a high amount of uncertainty with regards to the track. A stronger system likely would track north of the Caribbean and move toward the Bahamas early next week, while a weaker system could move into the Caribbean.
Environmental conditions are expected to be favorable for development this week. It is possible that the disturbance could develop into a moderate tropical storm by the time it makes its closest approach to the Leeward Islands. If the system were to move north of the Caribbean, further intensification could occur.
Persons at home and abroad are encouraged to download the DDM’s Alert app in the Apple App store or Google Play store to receive updates of any hazards affecting the Territory.
You can also visit the DDM’s webpage at www.bviddm.com and subscribe for updates or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/bvi.ddm.
Disclaimer: The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) is not an official Meteorological Office. The Information disseminated by the Department is gathered from a number of professional sources used or contracted by the DDM to provide such information. This information is to be used as a guide by anyone who has interest in local weather conditions. By no means can the DDM or the BVI Government be held accountable by anyone who uses this information appropriately for legal evidence or in justification of any decision which may result in the loss of finances, property or life.
