EYE4WEATHER UPDATE: SSS Islands still under Tropical Storm Warning…

As of 11am, the center of Tropical Storm Erika is…
 * Located: 16.4 N 63.3 W  (+/- 90 miles S of St. Maarten)
 * Max. winds: 50mph
 * Moving: W at 16mph
 * Forecasted track: currently passing south of St. Maarten

Tropical Storm Warning issued for: St. Maarten/St. Martin, Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Barths, Anguilla, Antigua, Barbuda, Montserrat, St. Kitts, Nevis, Puerto Rico, Vieques, Culebra, U.S. Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands.
A Tropical Storm Warning means tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area, in this case, within 24 to 36 hours.

Tropical Storm Watch issued for: Guadeloupe, north coast of the Dominican Republic (from Cabo Engano to the border of Haiti), southeastern Bahamas, Turks & Caicos Islands.
A Tropical Storm Watch means tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area, in this case, within 48 hours.

The center of Tropical Storm Erika is “not connected” to all of the showers associated with it — the showers are “behind” the so-called “center” of it. Hence, Erika is still expected to bring some rain (possible thunderstorms), strong winds,high seas, and FLOODING to the North-eastern Caribbean — throughout the day today. 

We will continue to closely monitor its progress.  

(Click images to zoom in)

Here are some useful links: 

• Before a Hurricane
• During a Hurricane
• After a Hurricane
• Emergency Supplies Kit

According to a Press Statement from the Prime Minister of St. Maarten:
“ALL SCHOOLS and BUSINESSES (including restaurants, casinos, and non-emergency government services) are to stay CLOSED on THURSDAY (27-Aug) — as a precautionary measure. This is to safeguard life and property due to the passing of Tropical Storm Erika.
All businesses are to stay closed, until the all clear has been given by the Prime Minister — after he makes his address at 12:00pm Thursday.”

Airport CLOSED for the day…
According to a Press Release from PJIA:
“SXM Airport will be CLOSED today THURSDAY (27-Aug), after following standard international safety measures related to the passage of a storm. Normal airport operations will resume tomorrow, as weather conditions permit. Travelers should contact the respective airlines for flight information.”