Antigua and Barbuda: After the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto, “All Clear” notice has been issued for Antigua and Barbuda with the reports of the minimal damage and no injuries. As the natural calamity moved away from the island nation, all the warning related to the threats have been lifted.
According to the Met Department, the tropical storm warning has been lifted, however, the threat of flooding is still looming over Antigua and Barbuda. Due to the heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorm, the country reported flooding in several communities where the commuters faced the situation of the streets filled with excessive water.
A few district disaster coordinators also reported that several trees have been uprooted and downed, which further led to the damaged electrical posts. Due to the Tropical Storm and powerful winds, the power outage has also been reported as several parts of Antigua and Barbuda faced the situation of the blackout.
The residents are advised to remain cautious as weather could pose threat in the coming days and the heavy rainfall can lead to flooding in the countries.
The authorities in Antigua and Barbuda announced the closure of the VC Bird International Airport amid the threat of Tropical Storm Ernesto on Monday and Tuesday. Even, the flights were cancelled to and from the country due to the cloudy conditions and stormy waves.
As the warnings have been lifted for the country, Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority reopened the airport on Wednesday and stated that they resumed the normal operations of the airport.
The Met Department stated that flash flooding could be recorded in low-lying areas due to the heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms. They urged the public to head their advice and take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety during the passage of the particular weather system.
The Tropical Storm Ernesto is the fifth storm of the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season and is likely to intensify into Hurricane on Wednesday while reaching towards British Virgin Islands. The system will become the second hurricane of the season after the Hurricane Beryl.
