The flash flood warning that had been in effect for the Virgin Islands since early Thursday morning was discontinued around 11:30 am as heavy rains finally began to subside across the territory.
The lingering system brought torrential downpours and thunderstorms to the islands over 24-36 hours, with some areas receiving up to 5 inches of rainfall. The saturated ground conditions and intense rain rates prompted concerns about dangerous flash flooding.
On Thursday morning, the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services issued a flash flood warning for low-lying and flood-prone areas of the British Virgin Islands until 10:30 am. Moderate to major flooding was occurring or imminent across the territory due to the already heavy rainfall.
The Department of Disaster Management had urged residents to avoid non-essential travel until the showers subsided, warning of flooding, potential rockfalls, and other road hazards. A flash flood advisory had also been in effect since Wednesday evening.
While the threat of flash flooding has passed, residents are still being advised to use caution when travelling as debris, rockfalls, and isolated areas of high water may remain. Motorists should drive slowly and avoid impacted roadways.
The ground remains saturated so any additional heavy rainfall could renew flooding concerns over the next few days.
For more details on how the situation unfolded, see the article linked below.
TORRENTIAL RAINS BRING WIDESPREAD FLOODING IN BVI: ADVISORY UPDATES – 284 Media – News from the BVI