Tropical wave could become a depression

A tropical wave which is approaching Barbados could develop into a tropical depression by the middle of this week or even earlier.

The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) continues to closely monitor the progress of the wave located near 44W and associated low pressure centered near 8N 44W or about 1 760km (1 110 miles) east-southeast of Barbados at 5 p.m.

Although the system is better organised than yesterday, the Met Office said in  a statement, convection remained sporadic throughout the day as it tracked westward near 15mph (24km/h). This general westward to slightly north of westward motion with an increase in forward speed around Monday, is expected.

Conditions appear favourable for further development and a tropical depression could form sometime early or by the middle of this week.

Satellite data suggests the vortex is elongated and this, as well as some relatively dry air wrapping into the centre, have inhibited any rapid development.

Environmental conditions will continue to improve tonight and into tomorrow, which should give the system the opportunity to tighten up its elongated circulation.

The BMS is urging the public to be ready and to remain on the alert for messages from this department and the Department of Emergency Management on Monday and Tuesday.

Excess rainfall, severe thunderstorm and wind alerts remain elevated to yellow level for Tuesday. As of 6 p.m. Sunday, the marine alert will be elevated to orange (small craft advisory). This means that the public should be aware that there is the possibility of hazardous weather conditions on Tuesday.

Barbadians are also reminded to download the CAP.CAP or BMS insight apps.

The next update will be issued at 6 a.m. on Monday. (PR/SAT)

Coverage of the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane season is brought to you by CG United.

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