CAYMAN BACK ON WEATHER ALERT

Residents of the Cayman Islands are urged to stay on high alert, especially for the next few days as the weather emergency caused by the development of what became deadly hurricane Helene, seems set for a replay.

Chief Meteorologist Kerry Powery reports that an area of concern near the Cayman Islands has been identified by the National Hurricane Center with a 50% chance of developing over the next seven days.

This system is similar to the origins of Hurricane Helene but is still developing, with potential rainfall of up to 4 inches for Grand Cayman and 2 inches for the Sister Islands.

Meanwhile, the Cayman Islands National Weather Service (NWS) and Hazard Management Cayman Islands (HMCI) are urging residents to remain vigilant as a new system continues to be monitored for further development, potentially near the Cayman Islands.

“A broad area of low pressure could develop near the Cayman Islands later this week. The system currently has a 0% chance of developing within the next two days and 70% chance within 7 days. A tropical depression could develop near the Cayman Islands later this week.,” the NWS and HMCI said in a joint statement.

“At this stage, there is a lot of uncertainty relating to the exact location and the general strengthening of this system. These factors will determine what impacts would be experienced by the Cayman Islands.”

According to the two agencies, while noting its similarities to the genesis of Hurricane Helene, it is important to note that some environmental factors are different, and these affect the general forecast of the system.

Models are indicating up to 4 inches of rain between October 2 and 3.

With the ground already saturated from Helene and tides expected to be elevated this week, this poses some concerns in terms of potential flooding with this system.   

There is the potential for strong winds across the Cayman Islands, which would result in rough seas, especially in and around showers. A small craft advisory is in effect for Wednesday and Thursday, October 2nd and 3rd.

The NWS and HMCI are advising that in preparation for what may be ahead, residents should check their hurricane preparedness kits and secure their homes, particularly against flooding in low-lying areas. Additionally, in the eventuality of strong winds, homeowners and tenants are encouraged to make the necessary arrangements to secure dwellings and property.

Residents are also reminded to stay tuned to official updates from NWS, HMCI, and Radio Cayman for the latest information as this weather system develops.

The US National Hurricane Center(NHC) reports that it is watching for potential tropical development in the same region where Hurricane Helene formed earlier this week.  “An area of low pressure could begin to organize in the region early this week before moving slowly into the Gulf of Mexico, where additional development is possible.”

A tropical depression could form around midweek while the system tracks northwestward. The system is expected to move into the Gulf during the latter part of the week.

Authorities in the Cayman Islands continue to monitor the system and are urging residents to stay on high alert and take the necessary precautions.