Depression Nears as 2 Metre Swells & Thunderstorms Trigger Urgent Safety Warnings

THUNDERY showers and localized flooding are set to sweep across the island this Friday, 6 February, as a tropical depression moves through the region, bringing humidity and above-average temperatures. Meteorologists have issued a safety warning, advising the public to seek shelter and avoid open plains, hiking, or sea excursions during lightning strikes.

The warning comes as a tropical depression was sighted at 4:00 AM, positioned at latitude 14.8 degrees South and longitude 60.6 degrees East, tracking south-west at 15 km/h.

Afternoon Escalation

While the morning began with partly cloudy skies and occasional showers in the North and East, conditions are expected to deteriorate by midday.

Cloud cover will build significantly over the Central Plateau and the southern half of the island, leading to localized moderate showers and isolated thunderstorms. These conditions are forecast to spread to other sectors as the afternoon progresses, with fog patches likely to reduce visibility in certain areas.

Temperature and Wind Forecast

Residents can expect a warmer day than usual, with temperatures climbing slightly above the seasonal average:

• Coastal Regions: Highs of 30°C to 33°C.
• Central Plateau: Highs of 26°C to 28°C.

A light, warm, and humid airstream is currently circulating over the region. Winds will persist from the North at approximately 15 km/h, though they may become variable at times.

Maritime Conditions

The sea remains a concern for mariners, reported as rough beyond the reefs. South-westerly swells of approximately 2 metres are expected, prompting officials to reiterate that sea outings should be avoided during thundery activity.

Outlook for Tonight

Showers will linger into the early evening, particularly over high ground, before the sky briefly clears. However, a second wave of clouds arriving from the East is expected to bring further rain late tonight to the North, East, and the Central Plateau.

Overnight lows are expected to drop to between 20°C and 22°C on the Central Plateau, while coastal residents will see minimums of 24°C to 26°C.

Safety Note: Avoid sheltering under trees during active thunderstorms.

Source: Defi Media