SIMPSON BAY–A Heavy Rainfall Watch went into effect for St. Maarten yesterday night and will continue through tomorrow, Sunday.

The Meteorological Department of St. Maarten (MDS) said in a special bulletin on Friday that heavy showers leading to localised flooding are likely over sections of the island due to the passage of Tropical Storm (TS) Bertha to the Southwest of the local area.

Bertha is moving toward the West-Northwest and is expected to continue on this general track through the Caribbean.

MDS urges residents to avoid driving on flooded streets until the heavy rain has tapered off or ended and the floodwaters have subsided.

MDS advised that if there are lightning strikes very close to your location (loud thunder, less than three seconds between lightning discharge and thunder) switch off and disconnect any sensitive electronic equipment. Also, disconnect any phone lines from computers.

Sea conditions deteriorated quickly last night into this morning with the passage of TS Bertha. Seas swells will reach five to eight feet by tonight, peaking at nine feet. All small craft operators are advised by MDS to remain in port and persons with interests along the coast should secure their properties.

Also, sea bathers are advised to avoid the beaches.

 

DAILY HERALD