Tropical Storm Watch in effect for St Vincent and the Grenadines

A Tropical Storm Watch is now in effect for St. Vincent and the Grenadines for Tropical Storm Bret. A Tropical Storm Watch is issued when sustained winds of 39 – 73 mph (63 -118kmh) associated with  a tropical storm is possible within 48 hours.

According to the 5:30 p.m. update received from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Meteorological  Services, at 5 p.m. the centre of the Tropical Storm Bret was located near latitude 13.3° North;  longitude 53.9° West, or approximately 485 miles (780 kilometers) east St. Vincent and the  Grenadines. The system is moving towards the west at 15 mph (24 km/h) with maximum sustained  winds of 65 mph (100 km/h) with higher gusts.

On its present forecast track, the centre of Bret is expected to approach the Lesser Antilles on Thursday and move across the Lesser Antilles late Thursday and Thursday night, and then move westward  across the eastern and central Caribbean Sea Friday and Saturday. Outer bands of Tropical Storm

Bret will begin to affect St. Vincent and the Grenadines from Thursday with showers, periods of rain,  isolated thunderstorms and strong gusty winds. Rainfall accumulations of 3 to 6 inches (75 to 150mm)  with isolated higher amounts are likely across the islands. A flash flood watch or warning will be  issued.  

Seas will gradually deteriorate from Thursday on the northern and eastern coasts. Moderate to rough  swells of about 2.5m to 3.5m (8 ft to 11ft) in open water are anticipated. A marine advisory will be  in effect for above normal seas swells.  

The National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) urges the public to be vigilant and  increase preparedness. Residents living in areas prone to flooding, landslide and storm surge are asked  to put plans in place to be able to evacuate at short notice if it becomes necessary. Fisherfolks and  small craft operators are asked to refrain from going out to sea once a marine advisory has been given.

The National Emergency Management Organisation will continue to provide updates from the St.  Vincent and the Grenadines Meteorological Services.