Tropical Storm Watch remains in effect

A Tropical Storm Watch remains in effect for Barbados.

A Tropical Storm Watch is issued when sustained winds of 34 to 63 knots (39-73 mph; 63-118km/h) associated with a tropical storm or hurricane may affect Barbados within 48 hours.

At 2:00 p.m. the centre of Tropical Storm Bret was located near 13.2N 53.3W or approximately 415MI (670KM) east of Barbados.

Maximum sustained winds are near 60 MPH (95KM/H) with the current movement westward at 15MPH (24KM/H) and the minimum central pressure is 1001MB.

The centre of Bret and its strongest winds are expected to pass approximately 45MI (72KM) to the north of Barbados late Thursday, therefore given the close proximity to the north of the island, a Tropical Storm Watch remains in effect.

Marine conditions are forecast to deteriorate from tonight into early Friday morning. Moderate to rough swells of 2.5m to 3.5m (8 ft to 11ft) in open water around Barbados are expected to generate choppy conditions which will particularly affect the islands’ eastern and northern coastlines.

As a result, Small Craft and High Surf Advisories are in effect.

Mariners are advised not to venture too far from port and secure their vessels leading up to Wednesday night.

Outer bands of Tropical Storm Bret will begin to affect the island from Thursday afternoon with showers and gusty winds.

Rainfall accumulations of 1 to 3 inches (25 to 75mm) are likely across the island. This may result in flash flooding in low-lying districts. People in these areas should begin to make the relevant preparations to protect property and life.

The next advisory will be issued at 5:00 p.m. today.

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