Tropical Rainstorm Dolly is tracking west-northwest at 26 mph toward the northeastern Caribbean, carrying heavy rain that promises drought relief but risks severe flash flooding and mudslides. While the National Hurricane Center downgraded Dolly from a tropical storm on Friday, meteorologists continue tracking it as a tropical rainstorm.
“Drenching showers and gusty thunderstorms will cross the Leeward Islands from Saturday night into Sunday, followed by the British and U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico Sunday afternoon and night,” AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva said. “Provided Dolly holds together and maintains nearly the same pace, showers and gusty thunderstorms will reach Hispaniola and the Turks and Caicos from Sunday night into Monday.”
Rainfall remains the primary threat, with most islands expecting 1 to 4 inches and localized areas seeing up to 12 inches.
“That rain can be both beneficial and dangerous,” AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jon Porter said. “On one hand, the region needs soaking rain because of drought conditions. On the other hand, any time you have torrential downpours, there is the risk of dangerous flash flooding.”
Rip Current, Red Flag (File)
Dry air, wind shear, and mountainous terrain could cause Dolly to dissipate early next week. However, forecasters note that surviving remnants could regenerate over warm waters north of Cuba and potentially approach the southern United States or the Bahamas later next week.
READ: ICE Lodges Detainer After Illinois Driver Charged In Pennsylvania Hit-And-Run Involving Child
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Dolly Barrels Toward Caribbean, Bringing Drought Relief And Flood Threats