By Sue-Ann Wayow and Prior Beharry
AS CARICOM leaders gathered in Chaguaramas in Trinidad to mark the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Chaguaramas, grey skies burst into showers.
While the VIPs, delegations, media personnel and others huddled under tents, some soldiers participating in the parades remained in the downpour on Tuesday.
The flag-raising ceremony of the Caricom countries at the Chaguaramas Convention Centre is part of the 50th-anniversary celebrations taking place in Trinidad and Tobago. It was at this centre on July 4, 1973, that president of Guyana Forbes Burnham, Jamaica prime minister Michael Manley, prime minister of Barbados Errol Barrow and T&T prime minister Dr Eric Williams signed the treaty of Chaguaramas that established the Caribbean Community.
On Tuesday, current CARICOM leaders signed a document to be placed in a time capsule for the next 50 years. But it was signed under a tent and placed in its position by soldiers.
But the leaders insisted they plant six poui trees under umbrellas and in the downpour.
Trinidad and Tobago is currently under yellow level weather alert.
The alert came into effect at 10 pm on Monday night and will continue until 3 pm on Tuesday for Trinidad, Tobago and offshore areas.
The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service (TTMS) stated, “There is a high chance (80%) of heavy showers and/or thunderstorms associated with a strong tropical wave (TW) moving through the area.
“Showers/thunderstorms are likely to be accompanied by gusty winds in excess of 60 km/h which can cause tree limbs, loose objects and weakened structures to become hazards. “Additionally, these strong winds can lead to dangerous sea conditions and with the added effect of spring tides, there may be an increased risk of coastal flooding.”
Heavy rainfall can lead to flooding in low-lying areas. Sudden downpours may reduce visibility and make driving conditions hazardous, the TTMS warned.
It added that although the Tropical Wave was already affecting the area, the most impactful weather is forecast from late night into the morning.
The TTMS is advising the population to secure loose items around property, do not venture into flood waters, be vigilant to changing weather conditions and monito
