Santo Domingo.- Meteorological consultant Jean Suriel reported that a tropical disturbance over the Caribbean Sea could develop into a tropical depression or storm within the next 24 to 48 hours, moving slowly westward south of Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. Identified as tropical wave number 48, the system has strengthened its cloud structure after passing over very warm waters, which increases its potential for development. Suriel noted that the system’s slow movement could favor further intensification and, if it reaches tropical storm status, it could be named Melissa.
The disturbance is forecast to move 200 to 400 kilometers south of Barahona, with its final trajectory expected between Tuesday and Wednesday. Even if it does not become a named storm, Suriel warned that indirect effects will be felt across the Dominican Republic. Winds and cloud cover from the system are expected to bring moderate to heavy rains starting Monday afternoon, particularly in the east, southeast, south, Cordillera Central, northeast, and border areas. Rainfall could intensify on Tuesday with lightning and wind gusts, peaking on Wednesday.
Suriel urged the public to stay informed through official sources, including the National Hurricane Center (NHC), the National Meteorological Office (ONAMET), and the Emergency Operations Center (COE), due to the risk of flash floods and rising rivers and ravines.
