Flooding, Mudslides Could Emerge in Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands Due to Continuous Rainfall

The latest weather forecast showed that the unrelenting rainfall could cause flooding danger in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

Recently, the National Hurricane Center was monitoring the development of three brewing systems in Bermuda, the Easter Caribbean, and North of Puerto Rico.

With almost a week left before the beginning of Halloween, weather stations have been tracking the progress of the three low-pressure areas that could become tropical depressions or tropical storms.

Meanwhile, nearby communities are advised to expect heavy rains and gusty winds.

Also, residents should stay updated with the low-pressure area developments.

Puerto Rico and the Caribbean Islands have been recovering from the damage from Hurricane Fiona, making them vulnerable to storms.

According to AccuWeather's latest weather update, areas in Puerto Rico through Thursday are at risk of flash flooding, mudslides, rising river levels, and travel delays.

The news report said 75 to 150 mm (three to six inches) rainfall totals in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands this Friday.

Moreover, there is a potential that eastern Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands could also receive 150 to 300 mm (six to 12 inches) of total rainfall.

On the contrary, the report added that rainfall could occur on Friday in parts of Charlotte Amalie, Christiansted (Heaviest rain totals).

At the same time, Arecibo, Lakas, Ponce, Arroyo, Caguas, San Juan, Utuado, and Arroyo could expect the lightest rain totals.

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Meanwhile, in the latest advisory (8 pm EDT 26 Oct), the National Hurricane Center said that they were monitoring two areas in the North Atlantic basin.

The advisory added that both brewing systems had a 50% formation chance of becoming a tropical or subtropical cyclone in the coming five days.

On the other hand, the NHC explained that low pressure in the central Caribbean and southwestern Atlantic unleashed disorganized showers and thunderstorms, adding that the environmental conditions were conducive.

Meanwhile, low pressure over the eastern Caribbean sea is forecasted to have conducive environmental conditions as it moves westward or west-northwestward.

Flooding Risk in Puerto Rico

(Photo : by Jose Jimenez/Getty Images)

According to AccuWeather, forecasts were concerned over potential flooding in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean this week.

The report noted that the tropical moisture in the area would move slowly, allowing days of rain.

The report observed that western Puerto Rico started to feel the rain on Tuesday night.

The next day unleashed heavy rains in Puerto Rico, recording over 50 mm (two inches) rainfall amounts, and San Juan noted the same amount of rain totals.

AccuWeather further explained that the amount of rainfall that could unload in 48 to 72 hours could be dangerous, noting that Puerto Rico is still recovering from Hurricane Fiona's aftermath.

Storm preparations

Whether to storm could strengthen or continuously produce heavy rains, it is important to be prepared to avoid any casualties.

AccuWeather's forecast indicated that flooding could emerge due to the continuous rains.

Be updated with weather forecasts. Take note of the tropical warnings or watch, especially if you are in the coastal areas. You can use battery-operated radio, social media weather reports, or your local news site.
Refrain from any outdoor activities or travel as continuous rainfall could affect road visibility or cause small to widespread flooding. Importantly, search for road updates and closures.