Flash flood warning in effect as torrential rain heads toward US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico

The National Weather Service (NWS) in San Juan, Puerto Rico has issued a Flash Flood Watch for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands beginning at noon on Saturday, November 9 and lasting until 11:00 p.m. 20.00 Sunday 10 November.

This guidance comes in response to an approaching wet and unsettled weather pattern that is expected to bring significant rainfall to the region, posing the risk of flooding and hazardous conditions.

According to the NWS, residents of eastern Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands can expect between 2 to 5 inches of rain over the weekend, while slightly lower amounts are expected in northwestern Puerto Rico. The monitored areas include low-lying and flood-prone locations, with particular concern for rivers, streams, streams and other areas vulnerable to flooding.

The recent rainfall has already left the ground more than 90 percent saturated in many parts of eastern Puerto Rico, making those areas particularly susceptible to unpredictable landslides and mudflows. Rivers and streams are reportedly above or well above normal levels, increasing the likelihood of flooding and landslides over the weekend.

In addition, the NWS has warned of life-threatening rip currents along the northern coasts of Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands. The north- and east-facing beaches in St. Croix is ​​also under alert, with a moderate risk of rip currents expected to increase to a high risk on Monday.

The NWS urges residents and visitors to exercise caution over the holiday weekend, avoid flooded areas and stay informed of the changing weather conditions. The expected heavy rainfall, combined with saturated soil and high river levels, has created an increased risk environment.