SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
Issued Noon Wednesday 20th March 2024
Severe Weather Statement for the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands for Friday, 22nd March 2024
The combination of a potent upper-level trough and unseasonably warm and moist conditions near the surface poses the potential for squally/severe weather in the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands from Friday, 22nd March to Monday, 25th March 2024.
Three-day rainfall accumulations of 4 to 6 inches with maximum amounts of up to 8 inches are likely in the Northwest Bahamas. Lesser accumulations of 2 to 4 inches are likely in the Central Bahamas and 1 to 2 inches in the Southeast Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The highest risk for squally/severe convection is expected from Friday evening to Saturday night in the Northwest and Central Bahamas.
Some street flooding and flooding of other low-lying areas, especially in the Northwest and Central Bahamas, is expected.
Heavy downpours, localized flooding, strong gusty winds, dangerous lightning, hail, and possible waterspout or tornadic activity may be expected during thunderstorms.
For the Northwest Bahamas winds will be 20 to 30 knots with gusts to gale force.
For the Central and Southeast Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands, winds will be 20 to 25 knots with higher gusts.
Small craft operators should not venture far from port in the Northwest and Central Bahamas on Friday.
A small craft advisory will come into effect in Southeast Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands on Friday.
Issued by Arnold King
Bahamas Department of Meteorology
