PHILIPSBURG – All schools on Sint Maarten remain closed today due to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms associated with the remnants of tropical storm Dolly. A flood warning is in effect for the island until 12:00 noon. Saba and Sint Eustatius are also bracing for heavy showers, flash flooding, and landslides.
The government of Sint Maarten decided on Sunday evening to close schools as a precautionary measure following consultations with the Meteorological Department of Sint Maarten. According to the weather service, the atmosphere remains very moist and unstable due to the remnants of Dolly, keeping the risk of heavy showers and thunderstorms elevated.
Residents of low-lying areas and locations previously affected by flooding or landslides are urged to remain alert. The authorities are monitoring the situation throughout the day and may extend measures if the bad weather continues.
Saba warns of landslides
The effects of the weather system are also being felt on Saba. Authorities expected a total of between 25 and 75 millimetres of rain over Sunday and today. Heavy showers may lead to flash flooding, landslides, and falling rocks on the roads.
Residents are asked to stay off the roads as much as possible. Even after the rain has stopped, slopes may remain unstable. Motorists who must travel are advised to drive slowly and never to drive through flooded sections of road.
Due to severe thunderstorms, the island government also advises temporarily unplugging electrical equipment. A small craft warning is in effect for the waters around Saba due to rough seas and wind gusts of at least 34 knots, approximately 63 kilometres per hour.
Sint Eustatius is also preparing for very heavy showers and possible landslides and rockslides.
