Tropical Storm FIONA watch in effect for Dominica, causes heavy rainfall

Roseau, Dominica: Tropical Storm watch comes into effect for the Commonwealth of Dominica from 6:00 am Friday, September 16, 2022, after a tropical depression in the Central Atlantic was upgraded to Tropical Storm FIONA. The country has been witnessing heavy rainfall and cloudy skies. 

The Storm is expected to affect the areas throughout the weekend, which would lead the cloud to overcast skies. There will be periods of rain and gusty winds possible to tropical storm forces. The showers are predicted to remain moderate to torrential at times. 

This is also expected as Fiona moves through the area tonight and tomorrow and forms the scattered thunderstorms. 

At around 5 pm, the centre of Tropical Strom Fiona is located near 16.4 degrees north latitude and 6.11 degrees west longitude or about 60 miles NE of Dominica, moving westward at 15mph with maximum sustained winds near 50mph. 

As per the present track, Fiona has been predicted to pass about 70 miles north of Dominica tonight. The Storm winds are so heavy that they would be extended 140 miles NE of the centre. The watch for the Tropical Strom remais in effect, and people in the prone areas are advised to be vigilant from the situations such as floods, landslides and falling rocks, 

This is also anticipated that there would be moderate to rough seas tonight with waves up to 12 ft. The department has also predicted the gradual reduction in the heights of the waves, and the Northerly swells could impact the western and northern through the eastern coastline. 

POSSIBLE IMPACT ON DOMINICA: 

• Rainfall amounts of 2 to 4 inches (50 to 100 mm) with higher

amounts in elevated areas.

• Flash flooding and landslides.

• Wind gusts of Tropical Storm Strength.

• Rough seas on the East, North, and West coasts.

ACTIONS OF THE NATIONAL EMERGENCY PLANNING ORGANIZATION (NEPO): 

i. The ODM has updated the NEPO Mechanism, and all emergency systems have been placed on ALERT.

ii. A Tropical Storm WATCH is in effect for Dominica as of 6:00 am,

September 16, 2022. This means that tropical storm conditions are possible within 12 – 36 hours.

iii. Slides and road blockages may be reported to the Ministry of Public Works and the Digital Economy at tel. #: 618 3129.

iv. At this time, emergency shelters will remain closed, however, Shelter Managers have been placed on ALERT.

v. Heavy equipment operators have been placed on ALERT and will be prepositioned as needed throughout the day.

vi. Schools have been suspended today, September 16, 2022.

vii. Work continues today.

ADVICE TO THE PUBLIC: 

i. Continue to monitor the progress of this weather system.

ii. Limit outdoor activities particularly during the evening of

Friday, September 16, 2022, into Saturday, September 17,

2022.

iii. Exercise caution in hotspots for flooding and landslides and be ready to take quick action.

iv. Take time to check on their emergency kits.

v. Stay tuned to the official media outlets for updates on the progress of the system and the actions of the National Emergency Planning Organization.

The National Emergency Planning Organization (NEPO) will continue to monitor the progress of Tropical Storm Fiona and provide updates as necessary.