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- Yacht aground on Reduit Beach in St. Lucia
  • From: "Christopher Kessell" <kessellc at candw.lc>
  • Date: Fri, 17 Oct 2008 22:49:05 -0400
I went to the beach to see the yacht that was ashore and took some pictures.
I also made a short video that can be seen on Youtube here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0UxgJ3W_7JU

The yacht was eventually pulled off the beach later this afternoon with
minimal damage. They kept breaking bridles and tow lines until they got some
really heavy lines from the marina. Unfortunately I wasn't there to witness
it.

Regards,

Chris

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- hot sunshine
  • From: fiery red <fiery_red69 at hotmail.com>
  • Date: Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:01:27 +0100
It's turned out to be a nice pleasant day today, very hot and humid. Travelling around the other day, there are a number of landslides that were being cleared up between vieux fort and soufriere. When in vieux Fort yesterday (right in the south of the island) I didn't see any flooding or other damage that might have been caused from the disruption of the weather.
 
Thoughts and prayers with those that have been affected by Omar.
 
Fiery xx


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- More pictures of wave action in St. Lucia
  • From: "Christopher Kessell" <kessellc at candw.lc>
  • Date: Fri, 17 Oct 2008 11:33:55 -0400
These pictures I took myself, first three were taken in Rodney bay from
Pigeon Island near to the Sandals hotel. The rest from the headlands above
Marigot Bay.

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- Rough seas along the West Coast of St. Lucia
  • From: "Christopher Kessell" <kessellc at candw.lc>
  • Date: Fri, 17 Oct 2008 11:19:20 -0400

As was predicted by the weather pundits, storm waves from Hurricane Omar came rolling up to the normally tranquil and calm West Coast of the island from the early hours of Thursday morning. The size and damaging effects of the seas ebbed and waned with the tide with a very rough period in the morning and another after midday.

 

As has been reported elsewhere the Soufriere area has seen significant damage particularly to the Barons Drive area which was also badly damaged by Hurricane Lenny back in 1999. Damage was also reported in Anse La Raye and other areas up north. One yacht got washed ashore on Reduit Beach outside the Bay Gardens Hotel.

 

Some photographs have been making the rounds of the wave action in Soufriere for which I take no credit for. Unfortunately I don’t know who the photographer is.

 

The weather on Thursday was blustery with some very strong gusty winds experienced just after midday and I heard some rain fell in a few areas. My guess is that we had maybe 40 knots of wind sustained for a short period like a long lasting gust.

 

Today the weather is back to normal at least for what we call normal after the almost continuous month of miserable weather we have been experiencing.

 

All the best,

 

Chris Kessell

 

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- Omar
  • From: mike davis <mdavis76 at hotmail.com>
  • Date: Fri, 17 Oct 2008 03:34:24 +0100
Being over 300miles from the core of major hurricane Omar didn't prevent us from experiencing some very high seas as well as brief periods of very gusty winds and moderate to heavy rain.
 
Ever since last night the seas on the west coast began to rise to dangerous levels and they got worse by Thursday morning resulting in 5 houses in Soufriere being completely destroyed and 40 - 50 families having to be evacuated from their homes. All the businesses on the waterfront had to be closed today because of heavy flooding. Some hotels in the north were also flooded as well as some beach erosion.
 
We also got some very gusty winds and heavy rains for about an hour around midday today as the fail end of Omar brushed by. I had no standard weather instruments at my disposal but those wind gusts must have been at least 40 - 50 mph as its strongest and the rapid increase in the wind surprised many people. Some branches were broken and a galvanize hoarding was blown away in the city of Castries.
 
Omar basically caps a 2 - 3 week period of severe weather in St. Lucia in which we have witnessed severe flash flooding and landslides most of which were caused by the pre-hurricane Omar tropical wave.


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- Kick in the tail?
  • From: Chris Jenkins <chris at redmanstlucia.com>
  • Date: Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:59:18 -0400
Like everyone else outside the direct path of Omar, we're breathing a sigh of relief that it missed us, but in its early days it brought plenty of rain and now St Lucia is getting weather from the west as it disappears - unless the cause is something else entirely. Towns on the west coast in the south of the country have, according to radio reports, suffered flooding from heavy seas - here in the North, the sea is certainly disturbed. Soufriere and other low lying towns and villages, built right up to the coast, are reported to have had heavy flooding from the Caribbean.
Hopefully someone in the South will provide more detail when they can.
Meanwhile, out east, (see the advisory on the StormCarib homepage), is another tropical wave, which is how Omar started out!! Best wishes to everyone in the Leewards and hope Omar passed quickly enough to minimise the damage
Chris Jenkins
www.zaravillas.com


- Omar back to bite us
  • From: Chris Jenkins <chris at redmanstlucia.com>
  • Date: Tue, 14 Oct 2008 15:58:38 -0400
Mid afternoon Tuesday in St Lucia, heavy rain on and off most of the day so far in the North and people are generally concerned as to the ability of roads, infrastructure, older homes and the land to cope with yet more rain. Schools have closed early and we wait to see what the drift south east of Omar is going to mean for us. Looking at the satellite images we seem to be trapped between the eastern edge of Omar and some other system. The prediction is for this to turn to the north soon but the longer it takes, the more rain we will be due over the next 24 hours. Lots of damage last weekend but this could be worse, even if less rain, simply because the ground is saturated. Good luck to all those islands due to get the main thrust of Omar over the next few days. For now, it's sandbag and drain watch time here! And I must turn the pick up round before the water in the back flows over the cab!
Chris Jenkins

www.zaravillas.com


- WOW!!!
  • From: Michael Lascaris <mike_7800 at hotmail.com>
  • Date: Sun, 12 Oct 2008 00:53:10 +0000
Just a quick one...
 
This week has certainly been a very wet one....Rain, flooding, landslides in isolated areas at different times until today when it was isandwide, by all indications a mini disaster..got some pics and video of a section of the castries/ Gros Islet Highway and Gablewoods Mall where several cars were consumed by the flood waters.  Will post when I download...
 
Mike


 



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- non stop rain
  • From: Chris Jenkins <chris at redmanstlucia.com>
  • Date: Sat, 11 Oct 2008 16:00:34 -0400
We've had continuous heavy, at time torrential, rain for the past 16 hours. Few people are moving from their homes to go anywhere and in a short and curtailed journey we made earlier, we were forced back as the roads were impassable - proved by marooned cars and smaller SUVs, whose engines had been drowned in dips in the road that had become small lakes. I took a walk earlier and from a 240 degree viewpoint, saw only a solitary truck moving

On Thursday I expressed concern about this tropical wave, given the rainfall we've had in recent weeks and the rise of the water table. Our back garden, is flat and resembles a series of ponds. I suspect there have been homes flooded and local landslides in some areas but there is no news of this at present. I spent an hour or more digging up sections of the garden to divert water from our flood drain, which was at its limit around 11.00am. Without this work, we would certainly seen the water pour into our house. The road to here is also little better than a river and we should all stop waiting for someone else to clear the road drains at this time of year and as neighbours work together on it.

Very little wind, so even though it seems the worst of this rain has passed (I hope!) we are set for a few more hours of this weather yet as the front moves ever so slowly west. I'm surprised at how strange local people find it to have so much thunder and lightning. Right now, the rain has stopped although the satellite pics suggest we have a while to go before we're clear

Chris Jenkins


- Heavy rains in St. Lucia
  • From: mike davis <mdavis76 at hotmail.com>
  • Date: Sat, 11 Oct 2008 20:28:32 +0100
I haven't reported all season long and that is an indication of how quiet a season we have had in St. Lucia up until now .........
 
Torrential rainfall over the last several days has resulted in big problems in St. Lucia:
 
- widespread flashflooding
- washed away bridges
- many landslides
- several homes damaged or destroyed
- power outages
- antennas and houses were struck by severe lightning during the week
 
more info to follow soon ....


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- Tropical Wave Warning
  • From: Chris Jenkins <chris at redmanstlucia.com>
  • Date: Thu, 9 Oct 2008 15:38:54 -0400
The government is issuing television and radio warnings this afternoon about a tropical wave. People living at low level on the coast or in areas prone to flooding and or landslides are being advised to evacuate to safer areas. No sign of anything on this site or NHC other than the forecast rain from the trough of low pressure to the east. But, given the tremendous amount of rain over the past few weeks it is time to be safe. I suspect landslides will be a distinct possibility if we have sustained rain as the amount of groundwater is increasing as the month goes on. Two weeks ago our main storm drain around the house was only two inches from the brim, so I am seriously thinking about sandbags!
Any further info or  details on this TW would help.
Take care
Chris Jenkins
chris at redmanstlucia.com
www.zaravillas.com


- Update
  • From: sophie jobin <sophie-slu at hotmail.com>
  • Date: Tue, 30 Sep 2008 16:04:52 -0400
 
Good afternoon to all,
 
We had showers through the night, nothing to worry about. It sure is nice to listen to the rain falling on the galvanized roof.
This morning started with a clear sky but only to have a veil of clouds to cover the island for the remaining of the day.
It has been raining on and off all day, this was not a day for laundry.
 
Have a nice evening.
 
Sophie


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- Rain, Rain and more Rain
  • From: fiery red <fiery_red69 at hotmail.com>
  • Date: Sat, 20 Sep 2008 14:43:36 +0100
Hello all!
 
Here in the south it's been raining for the past couple of days. Couldn't work on thursday night due to the weather and the floor of the bar was wet. Last night was better, but i think that after all the rain we had during the day, most people stayed home. This morning it was overcast and it started to absolutely throw it down with rain. The tall coconut trees around my parents house are swaying in the wind, the Caribbean sea looking out to our SVG neighbours is grey with cloud and rain...not a very nice day at all.
 
Take care one and all


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- St Lucia
  • From: Chris Jenkins <chris at redmanstlucia.com>
  • Date: Thu, 18 Sep 2008 09:45:04 -0400
Thunderstorms started in the north about 7pm last night and rain poured throughout the night. This morning started grey and gloomy and from around 8.30 the rain started in earnest. Looking at the satellite images, it seems to be here for a while and forecasts mention rough weather ahead for the next week. After the temperature reached 36C yesterday, this is a relief and we need some rain this season for sure. For those of us working on construction projects, it is a burden but one which we keep reminding ourselves is pure good fortune compared to the suffering of the communities in Haiti, Cuba, Turks and Caicos and everywhere else hit by the storms of the past month.
Still a few weeks of the season to go, so take care one and all.
Chris Jenkins
www.zaravillas.com



- it's started to Rain
  • From: fiery red <fiery_red69 at hotmail.com>
  • Date: Sat, 23 Aug 2008 22:20:46 +0100
It's been raining on and off for the past couple of hours. I forgot I left the backdoor open, so have a nice big puddle of water all around the dining room.
There's been a bit of loud thunder, not seen any lightening. The sky is still dark and looks as though it's going to be raining most of the evening.
 
 


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- Missing in action
  • From: Michael Lascaris <mike_7800 at hotmail.com>
  • Date: Thu, 7 Aug 2008 04:30:44 +0000
Been out for a few weeks and missed out on all the tropical fun.  Lots of rain and funny weather.  Be back on island from Saturday hopefully to some sweet Caribbean sunshine and an uneventful season.;)
 
Mike


 



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- Sun and Thunderstorms
  • From: "Bay Sider" <baysider456 at gmail.com>
  • Date: Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:55:43 -0400
Its been a hot one today - one of those days when you really don't know what to do with yourself.

We had a couple of rain showers this morning but they soon passed giving way to blue skies and hot sun, now we are experiencing quiet a fierce thunderstorm, with lightning and loud claps of thunder, visibility out to sea is very poor and the rain is pouring down, glad we have a small respite from the heat, but as you all know it doesn't last!

- Its Hot, Hot, Hot!!!!!
  • From: "Bay Sider" <baysider456 at gmail.com>
  • Date: Tue, 22 Jul 2008 19:43:08 -0400
Its been a long hot day, we seem to have been settled into this weather pattern over the past few days.
Went up to Saline Point on the far North of the Island today, views were clear over to Martinique.
Everyone is complaining about how hot it is, it must have been bad for the guys and girls in the Carnival today, though judging by the amount
of water bottles left behind they were keeping well hydrated.

Lets hope the good weather continues!

- back to rain....
  • From: "Frans van Santbrink" <j69ds at candw.lc>
  • Date: Thu, 17 Jul 2008 18:36:04 -0400
Hi All,

After having a nice day mostly all day, just a couple of small showers
around midday on top of the hill.
But right now the cloud cover is back, and thunder is rolling again... so we
are in for some more water.
At least the temp is down, nice and cool around 24 celcius here now and
still going down it seems.
Tomorrow looks to be a rainy day looking at the sat images...

Enjoy the evening you all


Frans J69DS
146.940 (-0.6)
3.815 (CEWN)

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- Clear Morning with some cloud
  • From: "Bay Sider" <baysider456 at gmail.com>
  • Date: Thu, 17 Jul 2008 07:14:10 -0400
Hi Everyone,

Had some squally showers in the night but 94L seems to have passed us now. We had quite a few yachts in the bay last night sheltering from the weather, which made for some good fun in the local bars.

My daughter is going on a school outing today to a local waterfall at Anse La Raye, so last nights rain should make it a better experience for the kids, I myself have to work!

Have a great day!

- lot of rain...
  • From: "Frans van Santbrink" <j69ds at candw.lc>
  • Date: Wed, 16 Jul 2008 21:52:33 -0400
Hi All,


We had loads of rain between 4 and 7 pm here on top of the hill. A bit of
wind also.
But right now it has all died down, just overcast and a nice cool temp of 24
celcius.
On the sat images it looks like most has gone past already... at least
nothing more than loads of rain!

Wish all a good night,

Frans J69DS
146.940 (-0.6)
3.815 (CEWN)

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- Wind and Heavy Rain Showers
  • From: "Bay Sider" <baysider456 at gmail.com>
  • Date: Wed, 16 Jul 2008 19:08:47 -0400
Hi we are now experiencing wind and heavy rain showers, we had a thunderstorm earlier but that has now passed over.
Had a of power cut, I guess due to the storm, but it only lasted about 30 minutes.
Glad to see the report from the reconnaissance aircraft says that there is no single well defined centre so looks like we are in for just a few squally showers - phew!




- it's Raining
  • From: fiery red <fiery_red69 at hotmail.com>
  • Date: Wed, 16 Jul 2008 21:55:04 +0100
Well down here in the south of the island, it's been raining quite heavily for the past 45 minutes and don't think it's going to be stopping any time soon. the view down the hill from me is all misted up and so is the view out looking towards the Caribbean Sea - I can't even see the sea!
 
The dog is tucked up in her kennel, probably frustrated that she missed her afternoon walk. At least I dont' have to work tonight, so i'm going to make the most of it and cuddle up on the sofa with some popcorn and a good book!
 
Stay safe everyone.


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- 94L on its way?
  • From: Chris Jenkins <chris at redmanstlucia.com>
  • Date: Wed, 16 Jul 2008 16:31:38 -0400
It looks as if Barbados is getting some heavy weather and we are in line for the same. Since around 2pm we have begun to see the cloud build up out to the Atlantic side but so far only few short showers. The wind though is picking up and the sound of thunder is rolling in. The dogs are desperate to get in the house, but looking west as the sun shines it is deceptively calm. We're hoping this won't be anything worse than a tropical depression and that Invest 94 fails to organise into anything more severe - either here or further in to the Caribbean. Anyway, back to packing up the loose materials in the garden before the rain and any strong winds arrive.
Take care one and all
Chris J


- just a bit windy
  • From: "Frans van Santbrink" <j69ds at candw.lc>
  • Date: Wed, 16 Jul 2008 14:53:29 -0400
Hi All

We have been placed under the following wanring in St Lucia:
**********************************
16 July 2008 12:00 p.m.

SEVERE WEATHER WARNING ISSUED FOR SAINT LUCIA

A strong Tropical Wave is currently approaching the Windward Island. 
This wave is moving quickly and is expected to start affecting Saint
Lucia and the other Windward Islands this afternoon into tomorrow. 
Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds are expected over the
affected areas. Residents should take all necessary precautions
against flooding and land-slides in areas prone to those hazards. 
Small craft operations, especially local fishermen are advised against
venturing far from port this afternoon and tonight.

Weather conditions should improve during the day tomorrow.
*************************************

So Far the weather is just a bit overcast, but the wind has been blowing
niceley with a few gusts. But nothing to make me take down my antennae yet.

Best regards,

Frans, J69DS

Active 146.940 (-0.6)
HF 3.815 (CEWN)


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- Update from St Lucia
  • From: "Bay Sider" <baysider456 at gmail.com>
  • Date: Wed, 16 Jul 2008 12:03:57 -0400
Woke up to blazing sunshine, winds have gradually been increasing during the morning.
Still sunny but clouds forming. Waves out to sea seem to be increasing - can now see white horses!
Will update later.

- Looks like its going to be a great day!
  • From: <baysider123 at gmail.com>
  • Date: Tue, 15 Jul 2008 07:27:53 -0400
Woke up this morning to bright sunshine after a heavy thunderstorm last night which didn't last long, it has been extremely hot on the Island these past few days so it was a relief to have a cooler night last night. Looks like it is going to be a great day, today, sea is flat as a millpond, one cloud in the sky. Keeping an eye on 94L, however I am pleased to see that no organisation has occurred as yet.

Have a great day!

- The rains begin
  • From: fiery red <fiery_red69 at hotmail.com>
  • Date: Wed, 2 Jul 2008 14:35:34 +0100
it's been raining here for the past 30 minutes or so with no signs of letting up. There's been some thunder and lightening as well and seems darker than normal.
 
It's one of those days, where you just want to curl up on the sofa and watch a good film on tv with some popcorn or chocolate :o)
 
 


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- Hello again....
  • From: Michael Lascaris <mike_7800 at hotmail.com>
  • Date: Wed, 4 Jun 2008 19:19:05 +0000
And a rainy start to the season it is. Much needed though, was pretty dry for some time there.  Its been pouring here in Castries for the better part of last night into late morning.  Drove to the north as far as Marisule, with the wipers on full, and noticed the ravine which passes through Corinth alomost over its banks even after recent attempts at desilting.  Not forgetting all the little rivers created by the downpour across and along the Castries/Gros Islet Highway.
 
Still kinda dark out, but seems to be clearing up.  The satellite photos indicate that we may get a few more thundershowers, recipe for good sleeping. :)  Also recipe for  land slippage...Be careful!!!!
 
Mike

 



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