Tropical Storm Gonzalo triggers Caribbean hurricane alert
James ChappleSeveral parts of the Caribbean have been placed on hurricane alert as the region braces for the arrival of the first significant storm of the season, Tropical Storm Gonzalo.
The US National Hurricane Centre said Storm Gonzalo could bring winds of up to 60mph "with higher gusts", the storm having strengthened as it approaches the Winward Islands from the east.
According to the centre, it will bring "tropical storm conditions" to the southern Winward Islands on Saturday (25 July), and there is still a chance it could develop into a hurricane.
"Weakening is expected after Gonzalo moves into the Caribbean Sea, and the cyclone is expected to dissipate by the middle of next week," the centre added.
A hurricane watch is in effect for Barbados and St Vincent and the Grenadines, while tropical storm watches are in effect for Tobago and Grenada (and its dependencies).
Heavy rain and flash floods are also possible between Friday and Sunday.
The Foreign Office updated its travel advice for Barbados and St Vincent and the Grenadines late on Thursday (23 July) to warn of the onset of Gonzalo.
"Because of Tropical Storm Gonzalo, a hurricane watch is now in place for Barbados," said the FCO. "This means hurricane force conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours.
"You should follow and monitor local and international weather updates from the US National Hurricane Centre and follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders."
A similar update was issued for St Vincent and the Grenadines.
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