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A pedestrian uses and umbrella amidst a heavy downpour in Kingstown on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2022.
A pedestrian uses and umbrella amidst a heavy downpour in Kingstown on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2022.
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The National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) has announced a flash flood watch for St. Vincent and the Grenadines until 6: p.m. Thursday, as a strong trouble wave continues to dump heavy shower on the country.

In a statement Wednesday night, NEMO urged residents and motorists in low-lying areas prone to flooding, lahar or mudflows and landslide to be vigilant and exercise caution.

The SVG Meteorological Services said pockets of moderate to heavy showers, periods of light rain, gusty winds and isolated thunderstorms are anticipated as a strong tropical wave continues to affect the country.

“So far, rainfall in excess of an inch has already been recorded at various stations across the mainland and models suggest that an additional accumulation of approximately 2-3 inches with isolated higher amounts in mountainous areas are possible within the next 24 hours,” NEMO said. 

A flood watch is issued when conditions are favourable and there exists the possibility of flooding during the watch period. This flash-flood watch may be upgraded to a warning if becomes necessary.

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NEMO further urged residents to step up their preparedness during the peak of the hurricane season and as the soil is already saturated from the heavy rainfall over the past few days.

“All residents are asked to be cautious, especially persons living in areas prone to flooding and landslides. Persons living in areas near rivers and streams such as Fitz-Hughes, Chateaubelair, Spring Village, Vermont, Buccament, Rose Place, Calliaqua, Belair, Dauphine, Arnos Vale, Marriaqua, Lowmans, Greggs, South Rivers, Dickson and Langley Park are asked to be vigilant and be prepared to evacuate at short notice if it becomes necessary,” NEMO said.

“Residents of the red volcano hazard zone are asked to monitor the rivers and streams and avoid crossing them during heavy rainfall.”

NEMO said that the high wind and marine advisory also remain in effect and small craft operators, sea bathers and persons living in coastal areas in the Grenadine islands as well as St. Vincent, especially on the eastern coast should exercise caution and be prepared for rough seas and above-normal swells.

“Persons living on hillsides and in windy areas are asked to be vigilant and guard against fallen trees and other loose objects outside that can become missiles.

“Residents and motorists are asked to continue to monitor and listen to updates from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Meteorological Services and to exercise extreme caution when traversing areas that are prone to flooding.”