Tropical wave approaching Barbados

A strong tropical wave is approaching Barbados.

The Barbados Meteorological Services in a press release today indicated the wave is near 48°W, south of 15°N and is expected to pass Barbados and the Southern Windward islands late tomorrow and early Sunday.

It added that an accompanying area of low pressure is along the wave axis near 10°N 48°W or about 800 miles (1300 km) east-southeast of Barbados. 

Met officials predict brisk surface winds of 25 to 30 kt (45 to 55km/h) with higher gusts and pockets of moderate to heavy showers with rainfall accumulations of 75 to 100mm (3 to 4 inches) possible during the passage of this system. 

In addition, a gradual deterioration in sea-conditions is also expected with east- southeasterly swells of 3.0 to 4.0m (10 to 13ft) likely. 

A high-surf advisory and small-craft warning will, therefore, be in effect from 8  am tomorrow, until Monday.

The Met office will continue to closely monitor the progress of this tropical wave and will issue further updates during the course of the weekend.