The centre of Tropical Storm Bret and its strongest winds are expected to pass approximately 59 miles (95km) to the north of Barbados late Thursday evening.
At 8 a.m. Thursday, the centre was located near 13.6N 57.0W or approximately 170 miles (275km) east of Barbados and the system continues to move westward at 15mph (24km/h) towards the Lesser Antilles with maximum sustained winds near 70mph (110km/h) and a minimum central pressure of 996mb.
Winds gusting possibly to storm force are likely during this period. Given Bret’s close proximity to the north of the island, a tropical storm watch remains in effect.
A tropical storm watch is issued when sustained winds of 34 to 63 knots (39 to 73 mph; 63 to 118km/h) associated with a tropical storm or hurricane could affect Barbados within 48 hours.
Marine conditions will continue to deteriorate today and remain so into early Friday morning. Moderate to rough swells of 2.5m to 3.5m (8 ft to 11ft) in open water around Barbados are expected to generate choppy conditions which will particularly affect the island’s eastern and northern coastlines.
As a result, a small craft and high surf advisory is in effect. Mariners are advised not to venture too far from port and secure their vessels immediately.
Outer bands of Tropical Storm Bret will begin to affect the island from this afternoon with showers and gusty winds. Rainfall accumulations of 1 to 2 inches (25 to 50mm) are likely across the island. This may result in flash flooding in low-lying districts. People living in these areas should begin to make the relevant preparations to protect property and life. (PR/SAT)