Satellite imagery (Vapor Water) of Hurricane Lee. Photo Credit: NOAA.
While Hurricane Lee is not expected to make direct landfall in the U.S. Virgin Islands or Puerto Rico, residents and visitors are being warned of multiple secondary impacts, including a high risk of rip currents and potential flooding rains.
Forecast models predict that the hurricane, currently located at latitude 20.7 N and longitude 59.1 W, will move north of these regions tomorrow and maintain that course until midweek.
Imminent Threats to the US Virgin Islands
St. Croix and the northern Virgin Islands are particularly at risk, with a high surf advisory and small craft advisories in effect for these areas. Swells generated by Hurricane Lee were set to reach the islands Saturday night, creating hazardous marine and coastal conditions. Breaking waves could escalate to 10 feet or more across north and east-facing beaches in St. Croix.
Additional Weather Impacts
In the wake of the storm's proximity, the wind flow is slated to become light to gentle by Sunday. This shift may amplify the likelihood of experiencing flooding rains in the afternoon. Predicted rainfall amounts range between 2 and 4 inches, although isolated higher amounts are also possible, particularly in the Cordillera and eastern Puerto Rico.
Risks Extend to Puerto Rico
On Saturday, the risk of rip currents will spread to the north and east-facing beaches of Puerto Rico. Coastal flooding may affect the most vulnerable areas along the Atlantic Coastline of Puerto Rico and the eastern half of St. Croix. Seas are forecast to peak between 10 and 15 feet from Monday through Wednesday, especially in the Atlantic and eastern waters. Breaking waves will also peak between 15 and 20 feet during this period.
Advisories in Effect
A High Risk of Rip Currents is in place for the north and east-facing beaches in St. Croix, Culebra, St. Thomas, and Puerto Rico. Alongside this, small craft advisories have been issued for the Atlantic Waters, Anegada Passage, and the local waters of the northern Virgin Islands.
Residents and tourists are strongly urged to stay updated on the latest forecasts and advisories related to Hurricane Lee, taking all necessary precautions for marine and coastal activities.
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