Caption: Port of Spain. Azlan Mohammed/AZP News
By Chantalé Fletcher
TRINIDAD has been upgraded to a Tropical Storm Watch-Orange Level.
In an update at 5pm on Sunday, the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service (TTMS) explained, “That tropical storm conditions, including sustained winds of 63-118 km/h, are possible within the watch area in the next 15 hours.”
TTMS said, “As of 5pm, Hurricane Beryl was centred near 11.1N 56.5W, approximately 450 km east-southeast of Tobago. Beryl is moving westward at a speed of 33 km/h.
“There is still a medium chance (35% to 55%) of sustained tropical storm force winds affecting Trinidad, particularly in the northern and eastern areas, from early morning on Monday, 1st July.”
The Met Office stated that from 6 pm this evening, there is a high chance (70%) of hazardous seas with large, battering waves.
Therefore, mariners should expect wave heights to increase significantly, posing a danger to small craft, coastal and offshore activities. Strong currents and choppy seas will make navigation hazardous.
Officials said Wind gusts, exceeding 55 km/h, may be experienced ahead of Beryl from this evening. And heavier rainfall and thunderstorm activity are anticipated near midnight.
Members of the public are asked to secure loose outdoor objects and livestock. As well as ensure all marine vessels are properly anchored and secured, and continue to monitor official news sources and weather updates from www.metoffice.gov.tt.
