A vigorous Tropical Wave located near Puerto Rico is producing a large area of cloudiness and thunderstorms across the Northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and the adjacent waters.

Although the thunderstorm activity has become more concentrated near Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands this morning, there are currently no signs of a surface circulation. Environmental conditions are expected to be somewhat favorable for development during the next day or so. There is a 40 percent chance of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours as the disturbance moves west-northwestward at 5 to 10 mph.
Locally heavy rainfall and gusty winds will likely affect the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Eastern Cuba, the Turks and Caicos Islands and the southeastern Bahamas during the next couple of days.

Due to this Wave, sea conditions have begun to deteriorate in some areas, making it hazardous to operate small motor vessels. Mariners should exercise extreme caution on open waters as squall-like conditions within thunderstorms may occur.

Mariners are therefore informed that a small craft advisory is in effect until this afternoon.

Residents and visitors are reminded to EXERCISE EXTREME CAUTION as driving through flooded roadways can be very dangerous.

Please visit the Department of Disaster Management´s website at www.bviddm.com for continuous updates.