SEVERE WEATHER BULLETIN No:2. MONDAY 22ND. MAY, 2012, 5:00 A.M.

 Satellite pictures show a large area of cloudiness with embedded thunderstorms moving Northeastward across the Cayman area. Weather models indicate rainfall amounts of 3 to 4 inches are likely during the next 24 hours with a maximum of 8 inches. Continued flooding of low lying areas is expected during the next 24 hours and residents are urged to take necessary precautions.

Additionally, south to southeast winds of 15 to 20 knots and rough seas are expected to continue over the area. Higher gusts in and around heavy showers will continue. Small crafts should continue to exercise caution over open waters.

The Cayman Islands National Weather Service will continue to monitor the progress of this system. All residents are urged to stay tuned to the local media for further updates.

Further details of local weather conditions can be found in the regular weather forecast (see below)

Next severe weather bulletin will be issued May 22^nd at 10 a.m. if needed.

 EMERGENCY SHELTER OPENS

Red Cross Shelter Opens for Residents Experiencing Problems with Flooding

The Red Cross Shelter is now open for residents who are experiencing problems with flooding and need to temporary relocate.

The Department of Children and Family Services has confirmed reports of a couple of families from the George Town area who have already left their homes due to the flooding.

The Red Cross Shelter is open for any other residents who may be experiencing similar issues.

Resident who plan to stay over at the shelter are encouraged to bring some food, a sleeping bag and personal items such as medications and toiletries.

For further information contact Mrs. Lynda Mitchell on 925 5346

Heavy showers and overcast conditions associated with an area of disturb weather over the Western Caribbean will continue over the Cayman area for the next 24 hours.

FLOODING

The NRA has been working from early Sunday morning to clear drains and free roadways caused by the heavy rain and flooding. The public is asked to exercise caution when driving. The Government will continue to monitor and assist the residents throughout the Island.

CIVIL SERVANTS TO REPORT TO WORK

Government Offices will open for business as normal today, Tuesday 22 May. However, due to heavy rainfalls experienced over the past 24 hours, severe flooding has resulted in some low lying areas.

If severe flooding is impacting a civil servant’s home or access road and preventing him or her from attending work on time, the civil servant is required to notify their head of department or HR manager as soon as possible.

 THE LATEST WEATHER FORECAST:

 Widely scattered showers and overcast conditions associated with an area of disturb weather over the Western Caribbean will continue over the Cayman area for the next 24 hours.

 Today (Tue): Cloudy to overcast with an 80% chance of widely scattered showers and thunder. Some showers may be locally heavy and lead to further flooding of low-lying areas. Temperatures will rise to the mid 80’s. Winds will be east to southeast 15 to 20 knots with higher gusts in and around heavy showers. Seas will be rough with wave heights of 4 to 6 feet. Small crafts should continue to exercise caution over open waters.

 Tonight (Tue): Cloudy to overcast with an 80% chance of showers and some thunder.Some showers may be locally heavy and lead to further flooding of low-lying areas. Temperatures will fall to the upper 70’s. Winds will be southeast 15 to 20 knots with higher gusts in and around showers. Seas will be rough with wave heights of 4 to 6 feet. Small crafts should continue to exercise caution over open waters.

 TIDES:  

Today (Tue): Low 2:46 p.m. High 11:20 p.m.

Tomorrow (Wed): Low 3:22 p.m.

 SUNSET: 6:56 p.m. Today (Tue).  SUNRISE: 5:48 a.m. Tomorrow (Wed).  

OUTLOOK: is for similar weather conditions through Thursday morning.