A tropical depression in the Central Atlantic was upgraded to Tropical Storm FIONA last night.

Today, Thursday 15 September 2022, Tropical Storm Fiona was located about 500 miles to the east of the Leeward Islands.

‘Fiona’ is moving in a westerly direction toward the northern Leeward Islands and the center of Fiona is expected to pass about 100 miles to the north of Dominica late Friday into Saturday.

On the current track, wind impact, if any, from Fiona, will be minimal. However, rainfall amounts of 2 to 4 inches across Dominica are possible with higher amounts in elevated areas.

Residents here in Dominica are advised to continue to monitor the progress of this weather system while it moves toward and crosses the northern Leeward Islands late Friday into Saturday.

Rainfall that could result in flash flooding and landslides is the concern for Dominica during the passage of this weather system.

Residents should be aware and plan ahead for Friday and throughout the weekend.

In the event of heavy rainfall, persons must not attempt to cross waterways and flooded roadways. Additionally, the risk of secondary hazards may pose a threat – for example, landslides in vulnerable areas.

Conditions may necessitate the issuance of a flood watch or a flood warning. Updated information will be made available.