Destin urges residents to monitor weather and have hurricane plans in place, as MET Office watches latest Tropical Disturbance

There is a developing tropical disturbance approaching the area, and the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services (MET) is closely following its progress, according to forecaster Dale Destin.

Residents in the Leeward and British Virgin Islands are being asked to pay attention to forecasts about the system – AL96 – which has the potential to become a tropical cyclone in five days and impact the islands.

However, given “the very high uncertainty of whether AL96 will become a tropical cyclone before reaching the area – and even higher uncertainties of the forecast track, intensity and size – if it were to develop into a storm, it is impossible to predict what exactly will become of this system, at this time,” Destin admits.

Accordingly, to be safe, residents are advised to have their hurricane-disaster plans prepared and to monitor this system closely.

Destin says further development is possible and a tropical depression could form over the next several days. Reportedly, formation chance through Thursday is 30 percent and formation chance through Sunday is 40 percent.

On its forecast track, the system could be in the area on Friday or Saturday, which will possibly bring with it locally heavy rainfall and strong gusty winds.

He says no alerts, watches or warnings are in effect, at this time; but this could change in the next 48 hours. Residents should monitor the weather and be prepared in the event that they are required to safeguard life, property and livelihood.

Destin says that an update will be given around 9 p.m. Tuesday, or sooner, if required.