Turks & Caicos Under Severe Weather Alert

A severe weather warning has been issued for the Turks and Caicos Islands, and The Bahamas, with rainfall expected to affect the islands from Friday, March 22 to Monday, March 25.

According to The Bahamas Department of Meteorology, a combination of a “potent upper-level” trough and unseasonably warm and moist conditions near the surface poses the “potential for squally/severe weather for the two countries.”

The agency stated on Wednesday that three-day rainfall accumulations of 4 to 6 inches with maximum amounts of up to eight inches are likely in the Northwest Bahamas. Lesser accumulations of 2 to 4 inches are expected in the Central Bahamas and 1 to 2 inches in the Southeast Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The forecast indicates that the “highest risk” for squally/severe convection is expected from Friday evening to Saturday night, primarily in the Northwest and Central Bahamas. Some street flooding and flooding of other low-lying areas, especially in the Northwest and Central Bahamas, is anticipated.

“Heavy downpours, localized flooding, strong gusty winds, dangerous lightning, hail, and possible waterspout or tornadic activity may be expected during thunderstorms,” the agency warned. For the Northwest Bahamas, winds will range from 20 to 30 knots, with gusts to gale force.

For the Central and Southeast Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands, winds will be 20 to 25 knots with higher gusts. Small craft operators should avoid venturing far from port in the Northwest and Central Bahamas on Friday,” the Met office cautioned.

A small craft advisory will come into effect in the Southeast Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands on Friday.