Heavy rain associated with Tropical Storm Philippe is forecast to continue through at least today and tomorrow as the system moves to the north of the USVI and Puerto Rico. Flooding is possible, and residents and visitors in both territories are advised to remain alert.
As of a 5 a.m. update from the National Hurricane Center (NHC) on Wednesday, Philippe was located approximately 150 miles north-northwest of St. Thomas. The storm is packing maximum sustained winds of about 45 mph and is moving to the northwest at nine mph, bringing gusty winds, rain, and rough seas across the region as it passes.
“Philippe remains a disorganized tropical storm this morning yet continues to produce heavy rainfall over the British and U.S. Virgin Islands. This activity remains displaced well to the southeast of the estimated circulation center,” according to the NHC update.
Several weather alerts have been issued, including a “Flood Advisory” for St. Thomas and St. John until at least 11 a.m. on Wednesday. A “Small Craft Advisory” is also in effect for portions of the local waters until at least Thursday.
“Due to the expected and ongoing conditions, there will remain a moderate to high chance for urban and small stream flooding as well as mudslides in areas as of steep terrain, as well as river flash flooding today through at least Thursday,” according to a statement from the National Weather Service in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on Wednesday morning.
Rainfall totals could reach between four and eight inches across the U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands, with locally higher amounts up to 12 inches. Puerto Rico is forecast to receive approximately two to four inches of precipitation.
While heavy precipitation is expected through Thursday, inclement weather may persist through the weekend. USVI residents and visitors can find information about severe weather, including emergency shelters and alerts, from the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency and the National Weather Service website.
