ODM advises public to keep informed of current weather situation

The Office of Disaster Management (DM) is advising the public to keep informed on the current weather situation and to exercise caution during Thursday night and Friday.

An area of low pressure, currently located 470 miles east southeast of Dominica, is expected to become a tropical cyclone later today or tonight. As a result, a Tropical Storm Watch was issued for Dominica at 11:00 a.m.

The public is advised to be mindful of local hazards that are likely to occur during the passage of this system regardless of development including gusty winds up to tropical storm strength, rough seas, flash flooding, landslides and falling rocks.

All should:
• Ensure that low hanging branches do not pose a danger to your property
• Be mindful of flying debris
• All users of the sea should exercise caution and pay attention to updates provided. Small craft operators should NOT venture far from port
• Sea bathers should stay out of the water.
• Persons along low-lying coastal areas should be on the look-out for possible flooding from sea water intrusion and be ready to move to safer grounds
• Be reminded that the grounds are saturated due to rainfall over the past few days
• Do not attempt to cross flooded roads or rising waters
• Be cautious when crossing bridges or using vulnerable roads
Persons living near river banks, ravines and water-ways should be extremely vigilant and ready to take action at short-notice.

Residents should continue to listen to reports issued by local authorities. Additional information may require further action.