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, set to begin at noon on Saturday, November 9, and lasting until 8 p.m. on Sunday, November 10.
This advisory comes in response to an approaching wet and unstable weather pattern expected to bring significant rainfall to the region, posing flood risks and hazardous conditions.
According to the NWS, residents in eastern Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands can expect between 2 to 5 inches of rain over the weekend, while slightly lower amounts are anticipated in northwest Puerto Rico. The areas under watch include low-lying and flood-prone locations, with particular concern for rivers, creeks, streams, and other areas vulnerable to flash flooding.
The recent rainfall has already left soils more than 90 percent saturated in many parts of eastern Puerto Rico, making these areas especially susceptible to unpredictable landslides and mudflows. River and stream flows are reportedly above or much above normal levels, increasing the likelihood of flooding and landslides throughout the weekend.
Additionally, NWS has warned of life-threatening rip currents along the northern coastlines of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The north and east-facing beaches of St. Croix are also under alert, with a moderate risk of rip currents expected to rise to a high risk by Monday.
The NWS urges residents and visitors to exercise caution over the holiday weekend, avoid flooded areas, and stay informed about the evolving weather conditions. The forecasted heavy rainfall, combined with saturated ground and high river levels, has created a heightened risk environment.
