It’s shaping up to be a busy weekend in the skies over Martinique. The prefecture has announced that the island is under a yellow alert for «heavy rain and thunderstorms.» As with any weather event of this kind, it is recommended that you exercise caution, stay informed about how the situation is developing, and take the appropriate safety precautions.
Vigilance Yellow: Heavy rain and thunderstorms
The prefect of Martinique has just issued a yellow alert for «heavy rain and thunderstorms» for the territory. The alert begins this Friday, July 31, in the late afternoon and is expected to last until Sunday, August 2, in the morning.
This alert has been issued due to a situation that could worsen. «This morning, a tropical wave is approaching the Lesser Antilles from the south. A second wave will cross the Antilles Arc overnight from Saturday to Sunday,» the prefecture stated in an announcement. According to the prefecture, «total rainfall» could «reach 50 to 80 mm in 3 hours and locally 100 mm.».
Let's do the right thing!
In the event of a yellow alert for «heavy rain and thunderstorms,» the prefecture reminds everyone to remain vigilant. It is important to check the latest weather conditions before engaging in any activity:
– If you have to participate in high-risk outdoor sports,
– If you or your operations are located in a high-risk area, whether on land or at sea.
Once a thunderstorm has begun, «[…] avoid using phones and electrical appliances. Do not seek shelter in a wooded area.» «In the event of heavy rain, be very careful near bodies of water. Fords can quickly become very dangerous. Be careful when crossing them,» local authorities advise.
In general, as with any natural hazard, it is recommended to exercise caution and use common sense while waiting for the return of warmer weather.
