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- Updates from the Islands -- - St.Croix (USVI) - - |
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For the most recent reports from St.Croix see this page.
| - Aug. 26 - T. S. DORIAN - STILL NOT ARRIVED AT BARBADOS |
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Good evening, folks! I’m sure many of you are waiting to find out how things are here. Well, the weather has been calm and very pleasant, but the people aren’t, especially travelers who have to make a sudden change of plans to leave ahead of the storm. The question is: When is Tropical Storm DORIAN arriving in our neck of the woods.? Obviously it has run into some detaining forces. The pressure is back up to 1007 mb from 1002 yesterday, so it’s losing some of it’s punch. The fact that it’s practically at a stand still, not having reached Barbados as yet, shows what a fight it’s having. It was suppose to have crossed the islands since yesterday. That makes it especially confusing because one doesn’t know if the flights are leaving or not. Apparently all boat traffic is stopped. The Virgin Islands seem to be the only islands which do not have a storm watch in effect. According to the latest CPA, the storm should be passing 96.2 miles south of St. Croix, at 6:18 a.m. on Wednesday. That is questionable since it hasn’t even reached Barbados as yet, then it has to cross the islands, then it has another stretch in the Caribbean before it actually arrives at this point of closest approach. This result is based on the coordinates of both our location and the storm’s. We are on 17N 64W; at 8:00 p.m this evening the storm was located at 13N 59W. Max sustained winds are still at 60mph. This is from the NHC: “THE INTENSITY FORECAST REMAINS SOMETHING OF AN ENIGMA. THE MAJORITY OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS SUPPORT AT LEAST STEADY STRENGTHENING, WITH THE MAIN HINDRANCE BEING THE VERY DRY MID-LEVEL AIR SURROUNDING THE CYCLONE AND OCCASIONALLY BEING ENTRAINED INTO DORIAN’S INNER CORE REGION.” No wonder DORIAN got the nickname “fighter” !! It’s fighting off any “hindrance” as it makes it way from Africa to America. The bottom line is that no matter what, we have to prepare for the worse while hoping for the best. May God bless us all. Isabel I may not be able to post an update if I lose internet connection during DORIAN’S tempestuous passing. Keep us in your prayers, especially for our girls who have huge travel woes. |
| - Aug. 25 - TS DORIAN on It’s Way! |
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Good Sunday night, all! Unless the track changes between now and Wednesday morning, TS DORIAN should be passing us as a Cat 1 hurricane at 8:36 a.m. as you see from the Closest Point of Approach below. And unless it moves closer to us the impacts of wind and rain may not be that much. At the moment there’s a 60% chance of rain for Wednesday and a 50% for Thursday. My girls are hoping the airline will contact them if there’s any change. Unfortunately, the only flight they can take to San Juan, PR is Cape Air, which is a small airplane. It’s kind of “iffy”. We shall pray and hope for the best. The mood here is complacency as everyone seems absolutely sure it’s going to the south of us. I agreed that it would be good if it stays to the south of us, but how about the other islands “down the road” that will be impacted. I was completely shocked that the “weatherman”on Direct Weather should wish that the TS or hurricane go through Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic just so that it would be weakened and not pose a serious threat to the mainland. He has also not shown any concern for the folks on the smaller islands; it’s always P.R. I had to comment below kindly reminding him that we are always impacted before PR. So, now we wait and see, the last peak I took, DORIAN was 753 miles from Christiansted.Moving West at 13mph; sustained wind of 50 with gusts to 65mph, pressure dropped to 1006 mb. It has definitely intensified and it has not even crossed the chain of islands as yet. It almost seems that the wind is keeping it back. It should have crossed the island chain today. Ah, well, I’m going to “hit the sack”. I expect to sleep. Be well, be happy, be prepared. May God bless us all. Isabel This is one weather-beaten bird. He stands faithfully on this post leading to the lower garden. Been there for years.  |
| - Aug. 24 - Tropical Storm DORIAN ! |
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Hello, everyone in the Caribbean! We were told today that TS DORIAN will be in the Caribbean as early as Tuesday. The cone of uncertainty is wide; we shall know more by tomorrow or latest Monday. As of now the track of the storm is going to pass to our south, however, they tend to wobble bringing it closer or even on top of us. TS DORIAN intensified rapidly from a Depression this morning to a Tropical Storm this afternoon. If it continues intensifying it can become a Cat 1 or 2 hurricane. Those folks on the island chain know that it is unlikely for a storm to go through without impacting one or more of the islands. Please take all the precautions necessary. First of all we have to monitor the storm. Find out how close it can get using the tool on Stormcarib. It is better to be safe than sorry. Be well, be prepared. May God bless us all. Isabel Another shower. They are coming more frequently now. We had another swim at Mermaid Beach at the Buccaneer hotel this morning, so that our granddaughter can take the memory and photos with her to Northeastern University in Boston. (To keep her warm in Winter.) |
| - Aug. 23 - Some Heavy Rain |
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That’s right! Tonight we have been treated to some heavy rain, and apparently there’s more on the way. Another thing on the way is a disturbance coming from the east with a 60% chance of becoming a name storm. At the moment it’s referred to as Invest 99L. That one bears watching for sure. It looks fierce and seems to have a spin already. It’s up to no good. The dust has been keeping it from intensifying too rapidly, according to the WU report. However, it will be moving into more favorable conditions heading towards the Lesser Antilles. It should be here by the middle of next week. We can be dealing with a Tropical Storm, perhaps even a hurricane. It so happens that my granddaughter is traveling to Boston with her Mom accompanying her to settle in at Northeastern University. Bad timing if that trip has to be delayed. There’s also the added woe of another possible name storm, now Invest 98L,in the Gulf, which will be impacting Florida and the Southeast coast. It already has a 70% chance of developing. The trip to Boston is via Miami. This would be a double whammy. Everyone in this region and in the Gulf region must be prepared for the worse, while hoping for the best. Watch and pray. Be well, be ready, And may God bless us all. Isabel SORRY I COULD ONLY ATTACH ONE PHOTO. SLOWWWWW WIFI !! |
| - Day 83 - Activity Galore! |
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Last night I finished the update so late that it went out on the 22nd, but it was the 21st. So, here I am sending another update for the 22nd. Well, It’s beginning to look a lot like the hurricane season. CHANTAL, now a Depression, is not affecting any land. There is a new invest 98L, which could be the disturbance heading towards Florida and the southeast coast. It has the potential to become the next name storm. The sea and atmospheric conditions apparently are conducive for development of this system. There is a Low Pressure system (1011 mb) crossing the Atlantic from Africa, and a large TW coming off the coast of Africa. Often the dust manages to break them up, but there are those which get through. We’ve been having lots of rain today, so one can say that the rainy season has officially started. This morning I felt like Gene Kelly with his umbrella in Singing in the Rain. Later the sun was shining brightly again. More rain is expected tonight. Be well, be happy, may God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Aug. 21 - CHANTAL - A short hurricane life |
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There’s another disturbance threatening Florida and the Southeast coast. It is being monitored for possible development. From here on there should be more activity. Today we had many more showers throughout the day. I’m trying to keep track of everything, but it’s not easy. I multitask through the day. This has been an especially trying day, so I can only encourage everyone to be prepared for anything. Be well, may God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Aug. 20 - Tropical Storm CHANTAL ! |
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Hello, there! At 11 p.m. tonight the third storm of the season was officially named. So we have CHANTAL, just when we thought there would not be any storms any time soon. It is far from us, so no need to worry. However, nameless “disturbances” can be catastrophic. Look what happened in Haiti by what the correspondent described as what felt like a mini hurricane. As Gert said, we also have to be careful calling this a slow season.True, the Colorado folks have given us a quiet spell until Sept. 1, but as usual we have to prepare as if something is imminent. There could very well be some monsters in the horizon. We cannot allow ourselves to be lulled into a slumber as well. Even if we’re having a great quiet season, in the back of our minds, we still have to think Hurricane Season. Fortunately, CHANTAL seems harmless as it does it’s twirly dance over a 1000 miles from Christiansted, moving East at 21 mph. In 1999, it was another story, a frightful one! Hurricane LENNY, developing rapidly was moving East from the Western Caribbean towards us! They don’t always have to come from Africa. At the moment, our weather continues very pleasant. The spotty showers are more than welcome. They keep the air cool when they’re present. I’ve been getting more frequent “Rain Alerts” these days. Quite often the rain is on time too! So, we should enjoy the days and just be attentive and prepared . Be well and safe, and may God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Aug. 19 -(Day 80) - A Short Term Tropical Outlook |
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The Colorado hurricane experts have released this short term outlook based on the below-average tropical cyclone activity in the Atlantic. During the rest of August they expect the slumber to continue. It’s the first time in 22 years that there are no storms during the month of August.The short term ends on Sept. 1. What that means we shall find out together. To find out more on this topic I suggest you go to Weather Underground (WU) News and read the article by Jonathan Erdman. He explains the whole thing. Isn’t that great? Looking back at 2013 the respite was from Aug 26 - Sept. 4. The difference with these two years is that there had already been 6 Tropical Storms in 2013, whereas we have only seen two and not anywhere close to us in 2019. This is very interesting. It’s like the eerie quiet before the storm. Let’s hope and pray that nothing BIG is coming after Sept. 1 !! We had some good showers this morning as part of the tropical wave which broke up before it dumped too much rain. More rain is expected tomorrow; there’s a 50% chance. The schools are opening all over the island and at the same time the rainy season is beginning. They go together. Like the Yellow plums and September. They should be called “hurricane plums”. The tree is in a section of the property which is not visited often. It’s like a jungle down there. I must check it tomorrow. Be well, be safe, be prepared. May God bless us all. Isabel, Our elderly cat, Tammy, poses with a lush tropical green background. She was adopted from the shelter as a tiny kitten. |
| - Aug. 18 - So far...No Tropical Wave |
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The heavy drops at lunchtime did not last long and that was that. Tomorrow promises a 50% chance of rain. Judging from the radar the bulk of the tropical wave passed below us. I was studying the archive for 2013 and I was surprised to see that it had the same list of names as this year. There were 13 storms, only two hurricanes - the H and the I names. During the time from August 26 to Sept 4 when we prepared for and celebrated our Golden anniversary, we were granted a period of Grace and the weather was spectacular. As our last guests/family members were leaving for NY, along came TS GABRIELLE. They were able to leave without any problems. Not long after the two hurricanes passed by with intervals between them. According to the tracking map all the storms passed to our north or to the south. We felt truly Blessed. A 14th storm, the beginning of Dec., was a no-named Subtropical System. So this year we have the same list, but we have still to see the 3rd storm. Hope it stays this way. According to my source Dr. Rick Nab, hurricane specialist, is inclined to downgrade the Aug 8th upgrade made by NOAA and Colorado. That could be a bit premature. He apparently has been wrong before. In any case, the forecasters for the season’s upgrade should be the ones to downgrade if they are so inclined. I say let us continue enjoying these days while we can. Be well, be happy. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Aug. 17 - Tropical Wave Approachng |
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My “assistant” informed me that a tropical wave is arriving tomorrow through Tuesday. That’s good news for those who still feel rain deprived; not even a little shower for a long time. My niece has The Weather Channel which is far better than Weather Nation which we have. She shares information with me. There’s such a crazy mixed up mess in our vicinity right now that it’s difficult to figure out what’s what. However, there’s a red vertical line on the map on Stormcarib that indicates a tropical wave and it’s very close so that must be the one mentioned. Approaching the West Coast of Africa is a wave with a low pressure of 1004. That could become a serious system once it splashes into the Atlantic next week. The rain event along the coast from Florida is being monitored for development, but apparently it will not be more than a Depression if it does. My weather friends inland in NC have to do a lot of watering of their vegetable plants/garden. Hope they get some rain soon also. May everyone have the weather they wish for tomorrow and May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Aug. 16 - The Weather Bird |
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When I was a child, my siblings and I were sure that it was going to rain whenever we saw one or more weather birds, officially known as Frigate for one, or Frigata for more than one. Why they flew around with a pair of scissors (the tail), we never knew. I found out in the meanwhile that they steal food from other birds in midair with their beaks not their scissors. I cannot remember if it ever rained after we saw the weather birds, but if they were known locally as weather birds, there must have been some kind of weather approaching. Well, today I got all excited when I saw a solitary weather bird hovering over the town, doing its graceful rounds, dips, high up and suddenly very low. I tried to get a decent picture but it was futile, so I took one through other means. It hasn’t rained for a while so I was hoping we would get something, to cool down the air. Today when I stepped outside after my eye appointment, it was as it I stepped into an oven!! There was a man in a wheelchair waiting for someone, and after the initial greetings, I asked him, “What do you think..Are we going to have a hurricane this year?” He replied with a worried look on his face, “The weather has been kind of strange lately...” Here, when it’s very hot, that’s a definite for a hurricane. Well, today was hot! (As I wrote the last couple of sentences a brief shower passed by.) On the other hand, for Florida, South and North Carolina there is a disturbance which will be producing heavy rain. The system is being monitored for development. Be ready for flash flooding. Not only name storms are catastrophic. Be well. Prepare. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - August 15 - Full Moon tonight (Be careful out there.) |
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Here we are, the middle of the month. We are nearing the peak of the hurricane season. It’s been so peaceful. Only two storms. I cannot remember any year since my return home to St. Croix in 1996 where there’ve been only two storms by this time in August. Maybe Gert can do the research and let us know? It would be interesting to find out. The dust was out in full force again today. That means there’s a lot of dry air as at the beginning of the season. It almost seems as if the season has ended. According to NOAA - “Above-Average Hurricane Season Likely in 2019”. The key word here is “likely”, which means: reasonably to be believed or expected. There we have it. Unless NOAA and Colorado change their upgrades of this season, we can reasonably expect 10-17 name storms this season. Let’s face it, there are still three months of hurricane season to go. Just get ready! Be well. Be happy. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Aug. 14 - Who said THAT ! |
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“The roaring of the sea and wind, fiery meteors flying about in the air, the prodigious glare of almost perpetual lightning, the crash of the fallen houses, and the ear-piercing shrieks of the distressed, were sufficient to strike astonishment into Angels.” The ”almost perpetual lightning”, reminds me of the night before Hurricane LENNY arrived. There was what was referred to as “strobe lightning”. It lasted for a long time. I was listening to the radio and the last thing i heard was, “..it’s a good thing we still have power..” Then WHAM ! Power outage! It lasted about 4 hours. I don’t know what all that lightning was about because the hurricane was not expected until around noon the next day. We never quite found out. What we did hear was that lightning struck the power station knocking out the service. Are we ready for such an eventuality.? The above quote certainly sounds scary. I believe that that was what made people crawl into kitchen cabinets and any safe, secure place they could find during Hurricane HUGO. It was the first experience of it’s kind for everyone. No one was prepared. Our island was devasted! Are we ready for another such eventuality. Are we prepared? Be well. Be ready. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 74 - Time is Passing... |
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Isn’t that amazing? We are in suspense! Time is passing and we don’t see any action in the Atlantic. It’s as if it has to happen because of the upgraded season. So, now instead of enjoying the quiet we wonder, “how come there aren’t any hurricanes ..?” Well, “good ting! ” as we say here. Some years saw a greater part of the alphabet. There was one year where all the names were exhausted and they had to restart with Alpha... Let’s be happy it’s calm. If you take a close look at Western Africa, there are some spiffy waves heading off the coast. If you notice the amount of Saharan Air between the African coast and us, that could be the reason for the lack of activity. In the end, the environment has the last word. There is a possibility that something could develop in the Gulf region before it does in the Atlantic. In any case, all the ingredients are present for hurricanes from now to the end of November. Let’s watch ad pray! Isabel |
| - Aug. 12 - “Tropical cyclone formation not expected during the next. 5 days” |
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What beautiful words. If only this message would last throughout the season.! Before long, though, the “C” storm should be in the picture, around our neck of the woods, or elsewhere in the Atlantic Basin. Are our refrigerators and freezers full? People have had to throw out a lot of food due to extended power outages and definitely after a hurricane. Yet, we are unmindful of that. Not everyone can afford a generator. This is not the time to horde perishable food. It is the time to use up what we have and shop sparingly. Easier said than done.The next time we are in the supermarket we will again buy more perishable food than we should. Non-perishable food is a must. That is one thing that is needed in any emergency not only for hurricanes. So, let’s pray that we can get through this season safely, quickly, and with our wits intact. Let us also be ready to help those who are unable to help themselves. Be well. Be prepared, and may God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Aug. 11 - Another Beautiful Day |
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People are probably beginning to wonder why NOAA increased activity when there’s no activity. I tried to give an example yesterday on how it can be quiet now for a spell, but then it begins. So, we really have to enjoy the quiet while we have it. After the middle of the month we could begin to see some more activity. There are some waves coming off the coast of Africa, and if we notice, there are many more behind those. If NOAA is right, then there will be no stopping these from forming. The atmospheric conditions will be just right. Nothing to hinder them from advancing and forming into possible cyclones. Be ready in the Caribbean and along the mainland coast. Do hurricanes dance..?? There is an interesting article by Jonathan Belles on Weather Underground (WU) . Find out how the “Trochoidal Wobble” spared some of the Japanese islands from the worst of Typhoon Lekima. Very interesting. Be well. Be safe. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 72 - of the newly updated Hurricane season 2019 |
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Is this the quiet before the storms.? Maybe yes, maybe no. All i can remember from past years is that we often have a lull, a quiet, like “is the season over? ” In 2013 when we celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary I was worried. Our kids invited many friends and here we were nearing the peak of the season. Well, lo and behold, as God would have it, we had the finest weather, like now. We celebrated for three days, the whole Labor Day weekend, and just when the last ones were leaving, along came a Tropical Storm. We had to make a rush to the airport, but the heavy rain caught us before we got there. However, we managed to get there without much delay and they were able to lift off before things really got ugly. It could have happened when we were partying; there would have gone the big tents and all the paraphernalia that goes with them, strung lights etc. That would have been a sight, an even more memorable day. So, this year, could be the same, but it’s still early, August can have some big surprises around the corner. The best thing is to be prepared and if by chance someone who lives alone can move in with family/friends to avoid an oncoming cyclone, do it. Leave everything as secure as possible and move before the storm arrives. I experience Hurricane Lenny (‘99) by myself, but I was too tired to be scared, so I slept. I must say having pets is a blessing. My two were a comfort. With this I shall bid you a wonderful Sunday. Be well, be happy. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Aug. 9 - Increase in Activity Expected |
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Well, dear folks in the Caribbean, we heard the bad news yesterday. We now have an above average hurricane season and we have to ponder this seriously. The hurricanes of today seem to explode sometimes close to land. Years ago JEANNE headed towards us as a tropical depression and it jump to tropical storm status on top of us. I remember the night well, we were listening to the weather report as we waitied in suspense. In case of a hurricane we should be ready long before it arrives. Let’s pray that it will not be as bad as we heard yesterday. Be safe, be ready, and may God bless us all. Isabel  |
| - Aug. 8 - El Niño left today |
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What does that mean for us? You probably read or heard the upgrade today. NOAA has increased the storm prediction to 17, CSU to 14. So far we have had only two, so it means a very active pattern is soon to begin if these updates come true. El Niño “ typically suppresses hurricane activity”. These hurricanes are not necessarily going to be landfalling; many become “fish storns” they die out in the ocean. Nevertheless. We have to take this seriously and get started with preparations. Easier said than done! Be well, be safe, and may God bless us all. Isabel Because of eye surgery today I was not going to post an update, but felt the urgency after I saw the information on the hurricane season upgrade. Now it’s an above average season. Sorry, no photos today.
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| - Aug. 7 - Slumber Time |
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Good news from WU ! The Atlantic Basin is so quiet with no significant trouble in sight that it decided to slumber, to sleep for a while. Exactly what I need. This is the time to get whatever still remains in our preparation for the peak of the hurricane season. There can suddenly be an explosion of storms, one after another. So, be well, be ready, and may God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 67 - All is Quiet on the Home Front |
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That’s right! Apart from the usual tropical waves crossing the Atlantic, there are no Invests marking disturbances that can become cyclones. All is well for now. 96L has given us some rain, but mostly to the West, where I observed whiteout conditions early afternoon outside of the town. There was a lot of rumbling in the sky through the afternoon and again the sky was very dark to the west. The train of waves coming from the east will surely bring more rain than we need. This morning it rained early and then a lot during the funeral but everyone was inside, later perhaps they would have had to contend with the continuous rain in that area. Regardless, the totally respectful and meticulous way in which the Veterans address the funerals of their own is most admirable. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Aug. 5 - The Tropical Wave Train |
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Well, 96 L has just about had it. Between the Saharan dust and the wind shear they managed to tear it apart. We may not even get a drop of rain. There is a 30% chance of rain for tonight and a 40% for tomorrow; much of it is going to our south. However, behind 96 L there is a train of waves coming this way. With so much moisture in the atmosphere, the dust doesn’t stand a chance, I used to think that the dust naturally lifted on its own, until last night when I found out during my research that the dust is sapped up by so much moisture. Wind shear is also low. Now the season can ramp up. So, let’s seriously make sure we can face any storm that forms out there by preparing with emergency supplies, lamps, etc.. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Aug. 4 - Weather Watch |
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So far so good. I hope our neighbors on the island chain are having fine weather as well. We do not expect anything until Tuesday. It was quite hot during the day, but now it’s cooling down with the setting sun. It’s nice and breezy on our hill. It’s good that people have been concerned about this system, which fortunately for us has turned out so far to be a lamb. Of course, that can suddenly change. The weather has a mind of its own. At the moment, though, “no significant development is expected” according to the NWS. It’s down to 10% from the original 70%. However, it is still accompanied by thunderstorms and perhaps heavy rain, it is after all, a topical wave. Have a nice evening, and a good night. Be well, be happy, and may God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 63 - Monster or Lamb to the East..? |
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Good evening! The tropical wave has really diminished enough to call it a lamb by comparison to what it was when it started out. It would have been a monster if there had been no dust or wind shear. Never thought I would be so grateful for dust. However, we’re not out of the woods as yet. In my research today I noticed the letter L attached to it which means a Low Pressure System. Hmmmm...It did not have that before. Anyway, we won’t worry too much about that. All we can do is be prepared. Regardless of what ever form it arrives, we’re told to expect heavy rain and that can last up to three days, or more. I must say that the small tropical wave that passed through last night had a lot of thunder with it, so one can almost see what a bigger one will do. Time will tell. Have a good night. Be well, be happy, and may God bless us all. Isabel A dusty sun |
| - Aug. 2 - Thunder !! |
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There is a smaller wave passing through in a most dramatic fashion.I heard my neice’s Chihuahua barking. She heard the thunder in the distance long before her owner did. My niece has tried everything. She ordered a thunder jacket from Amazon; hasn’t helped. She tried the lavender oil on the neck scarf, that did not help. Does anyone know what can calm a dog in a situation like this? They have tried just about every way including having her in bed with them, no use. The next wave which would be 96L is expected to arrive from next Wed to Friday. If it does not break up more it would be very strong. As a matter of fact, it can well re-organize once it gets through the dust and wind shear that it’s encountering at the moment. It’s down to 40% from 70 yesterday, that shows that it is being disrupted. Let’s hope that continues. In the meanwhile we are thankful for the rain. The lawn is slowly coming back. Rio managed to dig quite a few holes when it was completely dry. We have to try to fill those up as soon as possible. He had such fun digging! I wish you a good night. Be well and happy. Let not your hearts be troubled. May God bless us all. Isabel    |
| - August 1 - 96 L heading this way, Or..? |
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Our weather was quite pleasant today; tomorrow some more showers are ex[ected from a smaller wave, but as we go deepper into the hurricane season - day 62 to be exact, we are looking at what can turn out to be a very active season after all. At the moment, 96 L is keeping us in suspense. The latest is that it will arrive by Tuesday or Wednesday of next week in one form or another. Since it has to contend with Saharan dust and wind shear before it gets into our neck of the woods, we will not know what to expect. All I have for now from the NHC is that “..a tropical depression is likely to form several hundred miles east of the Lesser Antilles....Environmenntal conditions are now forecast to become unfavorable for additional development by early next week as this system approaches the Lesser Antilles.” The best bet is to stay tuned to the latest weather reports; there are many ways to keep track for those who care to know. With that said all we can do is watch, pray, and prepare. Be well, be happy, and May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - JULY 31 - What a Month this has been! |
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Glad it’s over, not that August is starting out any better! The local newsparer’s exact words yesterday in reference to the second disturbance in the Eastern Atlantic were: “ THIS WAVE BEARS WATCHING SINCE SEVERAL OF THE GLOBAL FORECAST MODELS DEVELOP IT INTO A TROPICAL STORM AND TRACK IT ACROSS THE LEEWARD ISLANDS BY THIS UPCOMING WEEKEND......IT HAD A WELL-DEFINED SIGNATURE. “ It could even be a hurricane. So, there we have it to start off the month of August. That’s followed by my friend’s funeral and my cataract surgery next week ! What next! Don’t want to think about it. As for the rest of this day, photos /comments below. Be well, be happy, and may God bless us all. Isabel |
| - July 30 - A Very Active Month ! |
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Hello, everyone, near and far! Heads up! Things are really heating up now. When this one finally leaves our vicinity we have to pay attention to Disturbance # 2, which started out in the far eastern Atlantic. NOAA’s Weather Outlook has it developing before it arrives at the island chain if it holds together. The hope is that the Saharan dust will snuff it out. This current tropical wave has not given us as much rain, but I know that other islands have been rained on. At the moment the activity is farther west with lightning and lots of grumbling, rolling thunder! This has been a slow mover! It reminds me of the prediction of “stronger, slower, wetter storms”in the future. Not good! We’ve had some days of a Flash Flood Watch in effect with hardly any rain in our area. It could be happening elsewhere on the island. In the meanwhile, as I was writing this update, the pattern shifted. It is lightning more around us with continuous thunder. This is a stubborn system! If July has been this active, what can we expect for August. ? If disturbance #2 does not break up it should be here in whatever form by the middle to end of next week. Be well, be prepared for anything, anywhere. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - July 29 - Invest 95 L still Hanging Around |
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This has been a fairly dry day when we consider the cloudiness and always that imminent rain that never comes. There is an answer for that—upper level winds. It has been pushing it back. If not for the wind, we could have had a storm on our heads. It would have been poor timing with so many relatives on island for the funeral last Friday. However, we cannot do anything about the weather; we just have to take it as it comes and be prepared. According to my sources, the rain should begin in earnest tonight and last well into tomorrow then for the next couple of days we should be having rain on and off until this disorganized system is well out of the way. The tree frogs are having their first concert in a long time. They have not had any reason to rejoice; now they do. Rain is in the air. Have a good night and may God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 58 - Invest 95L is going to drop by for a visit |
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There’s a flash flood watch in effect. We should get a lot of rain out of this one, unless it fizzles. Doesn’t look that way. It seems to have a spin to it. The mountains in Puerto Rico should break it up, otherwise the cone of uncertainty takes it to Florida. We had a shower earlier. I thought that was the beginning of the big rain. Just yesterday I wrote that NOAA does not expect any cyclone formation during the next 5 days. Let’s hope that will be the case. Hope you had a wonderful Sunday. Be well. Be happy. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - July 27 - Yesterday was Partly Gloomy, today Mostly Cloudy |
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I was unable to send out the update last night. Yesterday, twelve postal delivery vans accompanied by police cars in front and back with sirens blowing drove through the town in honor of my nephew. The drivers then attended the funeral service. The weather was nice, the only moisture was from tears shed. Today, my immediate family of four took off for the beach to relax in the sea for a while. The beach was being prepared for a wedding later in the day. What a difference a day makes. According to NOAA there is no “tropical formation during the next five days.” This is the time to visit. Hope you’re having a great weekend. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel Saharan dust was dense making it “partly gloomy”. |
| - July 25 - Morning Thunderstorms |
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This day started off early this morning with the arrival of a tropical wave and that much needed rain. It came in waves. It was a wonderful sight. We haven’t had rain in ever so long. Then later, it really exploded with huge flashes and even bigger thunder that shook everything and definitely everyone. We got that soaking rain, for sure. The sun shone again as ever for the rest of the day except for occasional cloudiness. That was one of the tropical waves that was marching across the Atlantic from Africa. The Weatherman on OneCaribbeanTelevision said that not much action is expected in the near future, but there is enough fuel to start a storm. The sea is warm enough. The NHC is monitoring the Atlantic for any signs of trouble. I do hope for nice weather tomorrow morning. It seems that many postal workers are going to walk around town in a sort of procession to the church for my nephew’s funeral . He served the downtown area for many years. We have been preparing for this sad farewell during the last weeks. Have a good night. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 54 - Windy, Hazy Day |
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This has been one of the windiest days in recent memory. The sea was also quite choppy. This is probably due to the manny areas of weather around the Caribbean. We didn’t get rain from the first wave, the second wave seems more promising. My niece thought it was reason enough to get excited at the possibility of rain. It’s wait and see. Unfortunately, AA is coming in so late, if any bad weather gets in the way, the flight could be delayed still farther. We expect our daughter tonight. So we want rain, but we don’t want it at an inconvenient time. It doesn’t work like that, right? This has been a very busy day. Hope you had a good day. Be well. Have a good night and may God bless us all. Isabel Plumbago flowers trying to look their best on a hot day. |
| - July 23 - Hot and Fuzzy |
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My meetings are usually during the hottest time of the day, so it takes every bit of effort to get out the door, but then it works out and much is accomplished. It’s easy to work and be with like- minded people. Well, the Depression #3 has fizzled with just remnants which are mostly off shore. Believe me the cities along the coast did not need more rain in addition to that from the severe weather that affected them overnight. The streets became rivers in some parts of NY and NJ as shown on the news. Many travelers were stranded at the airports. There is another disturbance of the Northweat coast of Florida, but it’s of no interest at the moment. As for us, as I said above, hot and fuzzy. I should have added humid. A typical, tropical day. We shall see how long this normal pattern lasts. Hopefully, all through the season. Let’s pray and watch. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - July 22 - Tropical Depression Three ! |
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What a big surprise! Yesterday Invest 94Lhad only a 10% chance of formation and today it is a Tropical Depression. The cone takes it away from Florida and somewhat removed from the coast, heading up to an unknown destination for the moment. As long as it stays over the sea it can develop still more. However, Gert wrote that it is not expected to strengthen much and might not even reach a ”named” status. That’s consoling for the folks along the coast. A Depression is a Depression, it usually packs a lot of rain. The 5:00 p.m. WU report has it heading to Florida. I think Miami might be flooded before it moves up the coast where two model tracks take it inland and away from land. At the moment, my daughter in NY said there is thunderstorm activity from another system. They have cooled down considerably. Our weather here continues calm with a bit of rain every day. Looking at the Tropical Atlantic, the TWs are marching across from Africa, and it is only a matter of Time before we start having more activity around here. Are we ready? Be well. Be happy. Be always prepared for anything. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - July 21 - Troublemaker in the Atlantic.? |
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Good Sunday afternoon, StormCarib family and friends far and wide! I hope you are cool if it’s hot, or warm where it’s cool (if there’s any such place!) Here we maintain the same temps as normal this time of year. Some people on the mainland, however, have succumbed to the heat wave. It’s unfortunate that this should happen; often it’s the helpless who have no way to help themselves. The good news is that the temperature has fallen in parts of the country and by tomorrow the Northeast should see a drop of 20 degrees. The bad news is that there is a new Invest in the Atlantic and it’s eyeing Florida and the Southeast Coast. At the moment it has only a 10% chance, but it’s heading into warmer sea surface temp and that could be potentially hazardous, like the next name storm. The NHC always monitors these disturbances closely and I’m sure they are going to keep us informed. If you live within the “cone of uncertainty”, it would be a good thing to keep attentive. Looks like the Bahamas is getting or going to have very turbulent weather caused by Invest 94L If anyone there is reading this please let us know what’s going on, how does it looks, what is the forecast? Be safe, be well, and may God bless us all. Isabel |
| - July 20 - HOT States! COOL Isle! |
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Our kids are melting in New York ! Fortunately, they have air-conditioning. As for us, our temp was normal for July. It always seems hotter, but compared with the mainland, it’s cool. Yesterday we had some rain. I decided to park at the Supermarket and walk a short distance to the Opthalmologist. Big mistake, though it was not raining at that moment, it rained heavily before and the side of the road was all flooded. I managed to avoid the puddles somewhat, sometimes having to walk close to moving traffic, but the water was stilll running, flooding the area so I ended up with wet 👟 👟. I got a ride back from a friend whom I met there. I think I mentioned our lost and found turtle, and that he escaped again? He returned the first time, but came inside the house unable to get into his. Now he’s gone again and who knows if we’ll see him again. Then again, was it his brother instead.? I cannot tell them apart. Peewee and Weepee look alike. All is quiet around the Tropical Atlantic. We’re fine with the passing showers; keeps us cool and happy, except for the dogs who refuse to go out even in a drizzle. What whimps! I’m keeping a watch in case anything forms and threatens us. Have a great weekend. Be well. Be happy, and may God bless us all. Isabel The potted banana is happy so far. Hope it survives. |
| - July 19 - Broadband or us? |
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Last night’s update was received this afternoon! We’ve been having problems connecting for 2 days already. We’re trying to locate the source. According to Broadband all is well on their side. I have no idea if this will go out today or tomorrow, so I will just say that today we finally got some rain, including some thunder rumbles! Being unable to do research I couldn’t see where it came from. We were sure glad to see that rain! Hope you're having a good day too. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel Unable to attach photos
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| - Day 48 - Nice, Breezy Day |
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If we can’t have rain, we’ll take breezes any day; it does not feel as hot out there. People are always convinced that hot days equal hurricanes. People also believe that an abundance of fruit early means a hurricane is coming this season. If it follows true like the bloated fish in the book, The Hurricane Hat, then it’s possible. The saying goes that it only takes one hurricane to spoil the season, right Gert? However, in 2017, we had two. One swiped (IRMA), causing a lot of damage, and one (MARIA) trashing the island, causing devastation; in between those two we had another one (JOSE), which caused tremendous flooding, but that was when it was far from us. It had a long tail packed with RAIN! That was supposed to be a quieter season. So, no matter what is said the important thing is to prepare for a hurricane while it is quiet. You never know... To another subject: We have had to postpone our Turtle Watch of the Red-Footed Tortoises; it would have meant for them being able to walk freely about with someone watching them to make sure they did not disappear in the plants and shrubs along the side. Well, one of them got tired waiting, it seems, and one week ago, he decided to make an escape at which he was very successful. He was gone and that was that. I figured he was in the property somewhere, but I was not to go about searching. Where to begin! Then, this morning while I was out, he ambled through the front door, which is often open, and my husband found him in front of the door of the apartment downstairs. He probably wanted to get back to his domain and could not get in. So, he got a lift. Well, that did not last long. He was gone again by the afternoon feeding. On the other hand, it could have been his brother. I cannot tell Peewee from Weepee. Hope you’ve had as nice a day as I’m still having. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel Sorry, tonight I am unable to attach the photos. |
| - July 17 - What’s ahead for the last 2 weeks of July? |
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According to Dr. Rick Knabb, a hurricane expert, the last two weeks of July has seen activity in the past. He detailed the history of the name storms that came around at that time. Let this not be the July to contend with. Judging from the two graphics of the Atlantic produced by NOAA, it is all clear, there’s nothing to fear. Sure, there are tropical waves always coming off the coast of Africa, but they’re not all developing into storms. Some of them bring us some much needed rain as we had early this morning. I hope this quiet spell lasts throughout July; it looks as if I will be having cataract surgery before the end of the month. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 46- Another One of Those Days |
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We are half way through the month of July and except for a couple of scares it has been very good. Saharan dust is still around, but not as dense as it was earlier in the season. Eventually it will lift all together. Everyone is “dying” for rain. Strange, isn’t it? Some people can’t stand the sight of it in other places. We could have some real rain soon according to the forecast of the next four days. I wouldn’t hold my breath on that one though. If it rains, it rains! If not, we will just have to enjoy another, sunny day at the beach or elsewhere. I saw a big mama coming off the coast of Africa. I just hope that one runs into Saharan dust, like the last disturbance that had us jittery for a while; the dust snuffed that one out. Well, hope you had a wonderful day. I find that if we can make someone smile, we’ve done a good deed. That would be a wonderful day. Be well. Be happy. May God bless us all. Isabel Sometimes it’s hard to decide:   End of day photo #3 |
| - Day 45 - A Mixed Bag |
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Today was quite varied, weather wise and otherwise. No two days are alike. The Sahara dust has been creeping in again, but sunshine did prevail during parts of the day. The breezes have also prevailed these past days. What a relief! This is definitely a great time to visit. No disturbances in sight. Not even any rain in sight, that is, until Wednesday when there is a 40% chance. That does not mean anything unless we see the actual rain on that day. Barring any outright storm, the weather is always pleasant. Once upon a time there was a little girl, not me, who like Alexander Hamilton experienced a very big hurricane as well.. It was the 1928 hurricane of San Felipe. She was only concerned about a lovely straw hat she received from her aunt in St. Thomas, who quickly shipped her back to St. Croix. What happened! They bought fish at the market and when they arrived home the aunt noticed that they were too round. Oh, no! A storm is coming! Fish filled themselves with water to sink lower to the sea floor for protection. She was so right!The little girl arrived safe and sound, just on time to help with her younger siblings as her mother rushed about securing everything. They lived in downtown Christiansted. Many people went to the wharf to see the rough waves. It was otherwise always calm. In her push to see the waves her straw hat flew off and she cried her little heart out. This is a true story by Sally Jacobs titled The Hurricane Hat. She describes the hurricane in such detail that it makes one feel as if right in the middle of it. In those days there were no weather experts to report on the progress of storms. All they knew was that a hurricane flag was flying above the Fort. That meant a storm was coming. The ships at sea would communicate with each other and the land. We are so blessed today to have so much technology that the storms are detected and monitored every bit of the way. If we’re not ready, it’s our fault. We have to do our part as well. It’s with a sad heart that I sign off tonight. I heard an hour ago that a dear friend died in Florida. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - July 14 - Now and Then Heavy Showers |
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How is your weekend so far? Here, we cannot complain. The weather is so enchantingly entertaining. Rain showers make us run, bright sunshine bring out the sunglasses, air-conditioned places are great when you’re out there on errands, walking, that is, and need to cool off. No errands today, no need for cooler air than what our hill provides with the breeze. I must admit it has been very pleasant. We no longer have to get the jitters about 93 L as it is no more. The next name storm is not ready to come on the scene, but there are many tropical waves making there way to the Atlantic in Western Africa. One or more of these is bound to give us trouble. I was especially concerned when I read the report of Linda Lam on Weather Underground (WU). According to her, EL NIÑO will lift in two months taking away the protection it affords. That’s exactly when we are going to be in the most dangerous part of the hurricane season. In other words, hurricanes will have help in developing more readily. That does not mean that one cannot develop now. It does mean that we must seriously get our act together without much ado. This has been Heritage Weekend and I must thank those who participated in the Alexander Hamilton quiz. One thing you need to know, for those who don’t, is that our airport was named in his honor for several decades. However, in 1996 it was deemed meritorious, to change the name to Henry E. Rohlsen Airport. It took us a while to get used to the change of name, but as we learned more about him and the Tuskegee Airmen to which he belonged, this fine native lad of ours, who bravely participated in WWII with the African American Military Pilots, deserved the honor bestowed by renaming our airport in St. Croix: The Henry E. Rohlsen Airport. (You can look up the Tuskegee Airmen on the Internet, if you will, for more information}. Be well, and may God bless us all. Isabel Alexander Hamilton was mentioned because as a teenage living in St. Croix in 1772, he experienced a horrific hurricane, which trashed thw whole island killing over 500 people in the process. He wrote a letter to his father on another island, and that was printed in the local paper, bringing this young man into the spotlight and many steppingstones that would lead him one day to become the First Secretary of Treasury of the United States of America, in case you missed this before. Our garden pet, Mimi, likes to observe the area from the Gazebo roof. |
| - July 13 - Creeping TS BARRY became a Cat 1 for a short time. |
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Do they ever have a monstrous problem over there! Non-stop rain for 48 hrs. Rain falling 3 - 4 inches per hour? That was the conversation in the doctor’s waiting room as I waited for my husband. I didn’t say a word. I wanted to listen to the exchange and pretended to read a magazine. I could hear the anxiety, especially when the attention turned to the disturbance in the tropical Atlantic. There is fear in the air. The disturbance only has a 20% chance at the moment, according to the NHC, but the sea surface temp is 82 degrees and the wind shear is low at 15 mph, so, “if it is able to fight off a large area of African dust ahead of it, could grow into the season’s third tropical depression by Sunday.”That and the large headline in the newspaper today, which I will show in the photos, is enough to make everyone jittery. This weekend is celebrated as Heritage Weekend and is usually celebrated with JUMP UP on Friday night, lots of music around town, food, and a huge turn out of locals and visitors. It used to be exclusively around Alexander Hamilton, that teenage kid, who survived a “Cat 5” in 1772. He was so expressive in his letter to his father on another island, that it was printed in the local paper there. The rest is history. Congratulations to the three people who answered correctly. The answer was ALEXANDER HAMILTON. Hope you all had a wonderful day. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 42 - Can Invest 93 L get pass the “unfavorable” conditions ? |
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If it does, as some have, we can see activity increase. It is up 10% to 20% since yesterday. Ahead of it, by this weekend, is an area that normally disrupts formation of systems. We can just hope it does. Yesterday I noticed that two of the many “spaghetti models” were pointing in our direction. I can’t imagine 25” of rain. That’s what they’re getting in Louisiana along with a 6 foot surge. Water is more dangerous than wind. Those folks need our support in every way. This is a scary scenario. I remember hearing that the storms are going to be stronger, slower, and wetter. TS BARRY is not as strong as was thought, but it definitely is taking it’s time, and talk about wetter! Scary, because that can happen here also where it only takes 4” of rain to cause major flooding. These past two days have been clear, free of dust, so the showers are coming through every so often. A tropical wave will be affecting the Windward Islands soon, it’s possible we can get some rain from that system. Be well. Prepare. May God bless us all. Isabel No one seems to know the answer to the quiz I posted a couple days ago. I shall give a clue or two: He is very famous. A broadway show was produced about him. Hope I hear from someone |
| - July 11 - Two in One Day |
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Well, well, who would have thought that we would have a troical storm in the Gulf and a storm (hurricane??) brewing in the Eastern Atlantic, right off the coast of Africa. While the Gulf coast is being drowned by TS BARRY, the trackers are already following the new, potential, tropical system in the Atlantic. Fortunately, for us, it is very low and continuing on this track should keep it far to the south. MICHAEL developed into a monster; it passed us so far south that we did not even get a hint of it being just below us. We hope that this current system will not harm anyone; hopefully, there will be enough Saharan dust to snuff it out. We must keep in mind, however, that the dust is not going to last forever, and that more and more systems are going to come our way, especially during the months of August to October. What does that mean for us? Prepare as if our lives depended on it. Watch and pray. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel  |
| - July 10 - 92L has now a 100% Potential Chance |
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I would think that 100% already means it’s already a Depression or a Tropical Storm. There must be one ingredient missing. It is still called a ¨potential cycIone¨, but I think by tomorrow we will have our second name storm of the season. Flooding rain will be the main problem. It will rain a foot at a time in some places. Are they ready.? I cannot imagine that here, but we do need some rain. As Dave said the Sahara dust is protecting us from what can be worse. This is the same scenario every year. The dust, the drought, then the tropical activity. There is a lot of action coming off the coast of Africa. Suppressed action. Though dry, let´s be glad we have this quiet before the storms. Be well. Be happy. May God bless us all. Isabel    |
| - Day 38 - What a Fuzzy Day |
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I’m waiting for a good “end of day” photo. We’ll see if eventually something changes. In the meanwhile, I’m going to throw out a quote. I want to see if anyone knows who said this, “I take up my pen to give you an imperfect account of the most dreadful hurricane that memory or any records can trace...” Anyone? I’ll give a couple of days. Then maybe some clues... It’s as if the Sahara dust makes it feel hotter as it was today. It’s been fuzzy all day. There’s a tropical wave on the way, but will it reach us? Today, I spoke with my niece at Miami Airport to find out how the weather was there. According to all the green I expected it to be pouring. Well, it turned out to be nice weather. The system labeled Invest 92L now has a high chance of developing. Everyone along the Gulf and Florida are monitoring it. Looks like the B storm is about ready. This is typical for storms to form in the Gulf and along the Northeast Coast. A bit later on, that will switch to the tropical Atlantic where hurricanes can form right off the coast of Africa and travel across to the mainland. Let’s pray and hope there are no BIG ones to deal with this season. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 37- More Frequent Rain Showers |
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On our side of the Atlantic the Tropical Waves that bring that much needed rain, have lifted closer to our latitude. Last night we had some hefty showers indicative of the rain, then pause, then rain, and so on. Not everyone benefits from these showers. This evening again, we had a very good rainfall. I’m always glad when it rains at night so that our visitors get the sunshine and beaches they came to enjoy. Today was a very hot, sunny day. I understand that the Gulf is being closely monitored by the weather experts for possible development by late week. Right now there’s a low chance of 30% during the next 48 hours and an 80% chance in five days. The next name storm seems anxious to appear on the scene. In Southern California, more earthquakes are expected soon. If I had to choose, I would choose a storm any day. Be well, be happy. May God bless us all. Isabel In reference to last night’s question: The Ophthalmologist said that the rainbow aura around a shining lamp is due to a cataract in the eye that sees it. My right eye. I will be having the cataract removed sometime in the near future. Rio was rescued by the Animal Shelter, seen walking along the Bipass as a 2 month old pup.After treatment and observation, he was put up for adoption in a large cage for four months. No one wanted a dog that was going to be big. My daughter and granddaughter felt sorry for him and took him for a few days just before Christmas and ultimately made the decision to keep him. It was a challenge, but Rio has found a permanent place in our hearts. |
| - July 7 - Rain or Dust Clouds .? |
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A good part of the day looked like rain a’comimg, then I realized it must have been the Sahara dust mentioned for the weekend. We were so busy cheering those amazing women on Team USA, that the “weather lady” sometimes known as the “hurricane lady” didn’t care about the weather. Congratulations, girls! Great job! 2 - 0. Let’ see if the men can beat that tonight when they play against Mexico! Changing the subject, we’re doing well in the tropical Atlantic, between Africa and us, but there’s trouble brewing in the Gulf of Mexico. In five days the next name storm could appear. By then there will be a 50% chance of developing. The folks on the Florida Peninsula were told to monitor it careful. Our next rainmaker should be here in a few days. Perhaps it’s the same system that has been dumping rain on Trinidad & Tobago. We can only hope. It is supposed to be a strong tropical wave. With this I wish you a good night. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel Question: What do you think? This evening I saw the rainbow colors around the hanging lamp outside with my right eye, and only the shining lamp with the left.   |
| - Day 36 - Hurricane PLUS Earthquake Preparedness |
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Attention everyone, we have seen and heard about the earthquakes in California. Are we all aware that we have been having them in the mid-Atlantic? There is what is called an “uptick” in earthquakes recently. It is important to prepare for an earthquake/tsunami as much as for a hurricane. Unfortunately, we don’t know when an earthquake will happen, although scientists can more or less indicate where it can happen because of various data collected. The technology is very sophisticated and great strides have been made, but the bottom line is that they still happen suddenly without warning. I can attest to that as we lived in Santiago, Chile for five and a half years and became acquainted with them. Here, we have sirens to notify us in case of a tsunami, but will everyone be aware of this. There was a tsunami scare earlier this year of which I was not aware. My niece next door called me late one night saying that her whole family was gathered at her house as it was high up like ours. She told me of the alert, but in the meanwhile they had given the all clear. One of the things we learned at a workshop about earthquake preparedness is to have all the emergency supplies as we would for a hurricane. Next, do not have vases, or heavy decorative objects on top of cabinets which can fall during a quake. These objects can kill a person if it falls on his head. Next, anchor china cabinets or such to the wall, for the same reason. In a very big earthquake in Chile a few years ago, our friends who were very far from it in the city, lost all of their fine china from their wedding, and she got hurt in the process. The whole cabinet came crashing down. The lived in a high rise building built to sustain earthquakes but not it’s contents. So, we really have a lot more to consider for our safety. Let’s calculate well how to manage in case of any disaster and start getting all the supplies together. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 35 - The Strongest Tropical Wave of this Saeason |
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Well, well, it made a big headline in our local paper, but that was the only big thing about it for those of us who didn’t get rain. If we had not been at Home Depot this morning, we would not have been able to enjoy that heavy downpour. When we returned to Christiansted, we heard it had not rained, just cloudy, windy. Then I checked it all out and I noticed that it passed just below us with the exception of the stray showers over parts of the island. Then more Sahara dust is expected to invade again over the weekend. Next week, however, another strong tropical wave will approach with showers and thunderstorms according to the National Weather Service. Of course, this is not written on stone. Come next week, we could have the complete opposite weather. Anyone notice a pattern.? I do, but we’ll go into more details after that next TW. Yesterday, I mentioned that July has had deadly hurricanes in the past, not necessarily here, but they are possible if the ingredients are in place. We already have the warm sea water, that’s one, the severity of the TW could be another. Again, the bottom line is that hurricane preparedness is of utmost importance. Last might I touched the send Symbol instead of the attach symbol, so now I hope to use the attach symbol instead. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel The two youngest Red-Footed Tortoises enjoying a mango, forgetting the rest! |
| - July 4 - Weather or Not |
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It was a beautiful day for us and a spectacular celebration in Washington, DC despite the weather, and in New City. That always brings back fun memories. We lived at Waterside Plaza on the East River, right where Macy’s have had their fireworks for years. We lived there for 12 of those years. Imagine half a million converging on the city for the fireworks!! Only those with special passes could enter the plaza. It would have been overrun, otherwise. Tenants received 4 passes in the mailboxes and if more were needed they could be requested at the office. Hope you all had a great day whether you celebrated or not. In case you were out of the Loop these last days, want you to know that Hurricane Barbara in the Eastern Pacific, flared up rapidly into a major cat. 4 hurricane heading straight for Hawaii. Thankfully for them, when it arrives there early next week it will just be a remnant low. What does that have to do with us? I just saw a report on WU about 4 deadly hurricanes in the Atlantic during the month of July. They happened in different years, but the bottom line here is that they can happen and this July should not be an exception. Prepare now! Make a checklist of all the needs for each member of the family, including pets. It’s never too early. Wishing you well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - July 3 - Emancipation Day |
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It was a holiday for most people. Others must keep working, stores, restaurants, organizers of the events of the day, and the all important hospitals, fire Department and VIPD. We headed out to do some grocery shopping and as we drove on the Bipass, I couldn’t resist the clouds; and I remember how this site was blasted with dynamite, right behind our house. The first time it happened I almost jumped out of my skin. I was so upset. I contacted the people responsible and reported that it had been a frightful experience having had no warning. They promised to let us know and I in turn told others near by. We also had to deal with a thick layer of dirt on our porch. After all was said and done, we had a fine road and even those who were fighting it, finally came to love it and the overlook to the same beautiful view that we have. Later we had a good, saturating downpoour, which cleared all too soon. At the end of the day we were treated to a beautiful afterglow. I want to wish all those celebrating the 4th of July, our Independence Day, a wonderful, happy day with or without others. Be well, and may God bless us all. Isabel |
| - July 2 - Blue and Hot |
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This was one of the bluest, clearest, and most beautiful hurricane season days we’ve had. Rain alerts popped up a few times; that was it. Maybe a part of the island got rain. It only rains on the whole island when a significant tropical system approaches. Much desired rain has avoided us. And we, on the other hand, have been rained upon when others near by did not see a drop. Tropical rain has a mind of its own. This morning I had to take yet another photo of our signature view. It was so clear. The “golden” flamboyant caught my eye in the lower garden, which has become a veritable Flamboyant Park. I went back later to catch the image before the sun set. I hope this has been as wonderful a day for you as it has been for us. Be well. May God b;ess us all. Isabel    |
| - July 1 - End of Day photo |
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See the ball on the horizon? This was the second to last photo. In the last one the sun was lower and the ball (Jupiter?) disappeared. G’night. Isabel |
| - July 1st photos |
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The problem persisted today, here are the photos I wanted to attach: |
| - July 1 - The 31st day of the hurricane season |
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Miracle! My update for this day was already posted even though I had not written it as yet.!! That, however, was my June 30 update as indicated on Stormcarib. Yesterday was a bad WiFi day for us. Maybe today I can roll along without a glitch. I noticed more clouds today, a noticeable difference. The Saharan dust has also abated for now. There’s still a lot out there, we’re not done as yet. This month should bring us more rain, especaially towards the latter part of the month. That would be exactly what we need. Everyone is hoping for rain. According to the satellite imagery there is moisture in the region, but it is still below us. We’ll be keeping a watch on things as the season progresses. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel P.S. Once again I’m unable to attach photos.... Does anyone know why that is happening? My two experts are away, |
| - Day 30 - One Month Down, Five to Go |
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#The first month of the hurricane season is over today. For the most part, hot, dusty, and very dry. The little rain we have received has not brightened the lawns, ours is more dirt than grass. But wait, here comes July! It can turn out the same as June, but I think that will change somewhere along the course of the month. Hopefully more tropical moisture will get through. I’m remembering from previous years that that has been the case. However, before the season ramps up, more information and helpful tips are being distributed to the public. It’s so easy to forget that we are in the hurricane season. Since I did not get a good “end of day photo”I will post one side of the card that was given out today. Hope you enjoyed as nice a Sunday as we did. Be well, be happy, and may God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 30 - End of First Month |
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A good night to all. I was unable to post the photos together with the update on the iPad for some strange reason. So, it worked on the iPhone and here they are: 1) the Bromelia was so hidden had it not been for the bright flower, I wouldn't have noticed it. 2) the dear little deer which had lost it’s head for a while with MARIA faithfully on it’s spot on the slope. 3) this 8 x 10 card with hurricane preparedness information was distributed today. Isabel |
| - Day 29 - B r e e z y ! Nice! |
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This has been a refreshing day. Not as hot, because of the breeze, but then there are probably other opinions about it. We have the advantage of living on a hill; the breeze is stronger, just like the hurricane winds. I heard that we were not given the exact information about the strength of Hurricane MARIA. The civil authorities did not want to cause fright and panic. All they told us was that between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m. we would feel the strongest part of the hurricane. I believe that must have been when it headed for Puerto Rico. When I heard that on the radio, I told the family, no sense waiting up. We were all exhausted and would sleep right through it. As it turned out. I was the only one who slept through, well, and the puppy next to me on the floor. Wind is a blessing, as you will see in the movie, THE BOY WHO HARVESTED THE WIND (hope you see it). It can also cause disasters in cyclones and tornadoes. We must protect life and limb by making all the necessary preparations. Many of us wait until the stores have run out of materials needed to secure the property. We wait because we think there will not be a hurricane, like with HUGO. Gert and Dave are always encouraging us to start preparations early. Do we? Be good, be well. May God bless us all. Isabel A mango from the tree I posted earlier this week. |
| - Day 28 - Hurricane Names |
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Whenever I take a look at the names listed for this season’s storms, it makes we wonder which one is going to be the real bad egg. There’s always one, sometimes two. ANDREA made her appearance early and fizzled to nothing without danger to anyone. BARRY is next, thankfully, there’s no sign of any possible storm in the near future. However, judging from our dip in the sea recently, the water is warm. That means fuel is being readied. We are having more showers these days with the Saharan dust temporarily gone. This afternoon as we watched USA vs. France in the World Cup, we had intermitent breezy, cool, refreshing showers. It took the heat out of the hottest part of the day. It was a welcome change. This morning I took a picture of the early morning sun. I see the green dot, which I found out from another photo, was Jupiter. Any thoughts on this from anyone else? I hope your day has been as interesting as mine. Be well. Be happy. May God bless us all. Isabel Rainy End of day photo
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| - Day 27 - A Welcome Change in the Weather |
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What a day! It started off with a couple of rain showers, a glint of sunshine, and another shower provided us with a spectacular rainbow. I could not get the whole rainbow in; not good at the panoramic technique as yet. That was a great start. The air seemed too have been cleared by those showers and the sky was blue again with puffy white clouds here and there. Later we had some heavier showers. The climate was the best we’ve had in a long while; still hot, of course. I met a woman today, who just arrived from Baltimore, happy to get away from the constant rain, there seemed to be no end to it. She had to escape even for only a few days. For her sake i hope it does not rain too much so that she can enjoy sunny days, even if they are tinged with Saharan dust. Our vehicles looked a lot cleaner. The photos should speak for themselves. Rain, rainbow, and end of day photo. Be well. Enjoy life one day at a time. May God bless us all. Isabel    |
| - Thankful for Rain |
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We got some rain today! Not a whole lot but we are thankful for it because the water trucks are rolling still. I was in McDonald’s drive through and this iguana was so happy for rain. He was lapping for water and looked so stately quenching his thirst! Also today, a friend of mine was so happy to show me his banana tree with thirteen bunches on it... he says it’s usually six or seven... I can’t help to notice how trees are so filled with fruits!!!! Hmmmmm.....Are the other Islands having a productive summer fruit season? Sent from my iPhone
Sent from my iPhone |
| - Day 26 - Another Beautiful Day |
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We were with friends today who were remembering the sudden 4 hour storm that gave us all that torrential rain, and dramatic lightning / thunder show. That was back in May. Since then we’ve had sparse, very brief showers. No saturating rain, as a result, many areas are now sporting brown instead of the usual vibrant green. Thanks to the glorious splashes of the bright, Flamboyant trees in many places, it Helps us to forget that there’s actually an ongoing drought. I read the post from the correspondent in Nevis and they have begun rationing water. We do not get potable water, or city water as I like to call it. We are not within the range. We are at the mercy of rain, or water trucks. There are numerous waves getting ready to step off of the west coast of Africa and so is a lot of Saharan dust, which has the tendency to dry up the rain before it can get anywhere near land. I know that it’s a matter of Time. As long as we do not get more than we can handle. Late this afternoon, my husband and I stopped by at the Buccaneer Beach for a quick, refreshing swim. The sea felt rather warm after the heat of the day, but very nice. On the way back, we stopped at our friends place to get some mangos from their beautiful tree, which got a beating from Hurricane MARIA in 2017. It has made an amazing recovery. We received a box full of mangos; which should last us quite a while. Then at home, we made it on time to catch the end of day photo. Sunset was at 6:58 p.m. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 25 - Part 2 Photos belong to Part 1....A Fuzzy, Wuzzy Day |
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First photo of the day    Last photo of the day, no visible sunset
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| - Day 25 - A Very Fuzzy Wuzzy Day-Part 1 |
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What a day for dust! It does not feel like dust, but it’s visible in the foggy conditions. The middle of the day is the hottest. I drove by a couple today who looked as they had hiked all the way from the wharf. I opened the window to greet them and asked if it was not very hot for them. No, they loved it. As I drove off I thought they must have had a long Winter and came to thaw out. Another lady I met and had an opportunity to talk with was from California. She had such a grueling schedule back home that she had to get away to get some rest. She chose St. Croix just by reading about it. She was very happy with her choice. She took down the information for the website to keep informed. This morning’s first photo was quite fuzzy,and the end of day photo as well, but in between I’ll share some photos, which I took on the way to the Hardware Store. On and off the sun shone through, but most of the day it was fuzzy. The forecast for rain is now for Friday. Enjoy your life. Be well, and may God bless us all. Isabel P.S. I shall send the photos separately. I started out by selecting the first photo and writing, and was not allowed to attached others. See you in Part 2 |
| - Day 24 - Hot Prediction |
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Sounds like Europe is warned about intense heat coming from the Sahara. We have been feeling it here as well. Lucky for us the sun sets early. We were told once that it’s too bad we don’t have longer daylight hours, but it’s a relief to have an early end to a very hot day. I wouldn’t change that for anything. The word for the season is prepare as if the one hurricane that could hit is meant for us. Many people cannot understand the logic of this. If the weather is nice day after day, there’snothing to fear. A hurricane gives advance warning that it’s on it’s way, but even so, with HUGO, the locals here were convinced that it was either going to the north or to the south of us. As a result, the precautions taken for a hurricane that size, were minimal. HUGO went down the backbone of St. Croix. As a result, the precautions taken for a hurricane that size, were minimal. Approx. 95% of the houses were severely damaged or totally destroyed. It was not enough to criss cross the windows with masking tape. Let’s pray and hope that it’s going to be a quiet season and that no one has to suffer the consequences of a slow moving, torrential, strong hurricane. The photos I’m sharing today are of the Steeple Building in downtown Christiansted. This building was refurbished, renovated, clock set to go and chime the hours, when along came hurricane OMAR and to this day, years later, it’s still silent. This is one of the museums in the historic section. And the second one is of the end of this busy day. Enjoy! Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel Question: Does anyone out there know what causes the dirty streaks on buildings?   |
| - Day 23 - Sun Day |
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How can one compare a gem with a gem if it’s the same gem ? Yet, it’s possible since no two days are alike. This particular day was hotter than yesterday. The fiery rays of the end of the day photo probably reflects it best. The satellite imagery for our area shows a mess of blue/purple little blobs heading towards the islands below us. What that all means I’m not sure. There’s rain in the forecast for Tuesday. I hope. Our turtle watch with the Red-Footed Tortoises is constantly being postponed; we’re hoping for next Friday, unless it rains. This is an outdoor event so we cannot have it if it’s raining. Well, we need the rain. We can always postpone again. Hope you all had a wonderful day. For some of you it definitely was not a Sun day SUNDAY. Some places are quite soggy! The farmers are at their wits end. If you haven’t seen the movie “The Boy Who Harvested the Wiind”; it is the exact opposite problem in this place in Africa. The people were forced to move away before they starved to death until this boy came up with a brilliant idea! See it if you can! Enjoy the photos! Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel This is a night flower. I snapped this photo at 10:30 last night. |
| - Amazing Sunsets |
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Hi everyone! I am new to posting on stormcarib and look forward to sharing info weatherwise on Saint Croix. Hats off to Isabel.... I always enjoy your posts! This is a picture of how beautiful our sunset was yesterday with the Saharan dust layer. I spent an afternoon at the beach with friends and it was sweltering hot but the water was like a big bathtub! Today the dust seems to be a lot lighter. There is a water truck in my area and he seems to be on the roll now since we have not been having much rain. Rain please and thanks! Looking forward to posting some more!!!!
Sent from my iPhone |
| - Day 22 - Celebrating on the Ca1 |
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Weather wise, the day was pretty much the same as yesterday with the exception that we got a wee bit of rain this morning. This was the day that we were planning our daughter’s birthday family celebration on the Cay according to her wishes, but not if it rained, she said. We had a great time at the beach there and took some photos of Christiansted Town which I’m going to share. I continue to see devastating storms and floods not only in the US mainland, but in other parts of the world. All I can think is that Mother Nature is reflecting the rebellion of mankind. When we see the terrible things said and done. It’s no wonder the Weather is “upset”. We cannot complain on this side. We had a wonderful day and I hope you did too. The sea was choppy today but the 1 minute ride, which the captain of the little ferry said was really only 40 seconds, was quite enjoyable. Here are some photos taken from the Cay. Enjoy! Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 21 - Is it Summer Yet? |
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It’s always Summer here; now heading into deep Summer with the hottest months ahead and lots of fuel for the hurricanes with sea surface temps quite warm. There is finally rain in the forecast for Monday and Tuesday, but that does not mean anything. It seldom rains as forecast. Running low on cistern water, so the Water Truck delivered 6000 gallons in two trips. We take a lot of showers, and do laundry quite often, and use the dishwasher, but only at a minimum. We should do well for a while now. Our grandson is pet/house sitting for 5 weeks, daughter and granddaughter are going off in a week for Orientation at Northeastern and a short vacation in NY before they return for another month before school starts. That in itself will insure enough water for quite sometime. Parting is such sweet sorrow! Thanks to Face Time we can still see each other if we wish to be seen, otherwise, we just have short conversations, text, or email if necessary. We’re never far away. Our baby banana #1 is doing very well as you can see from the photo. So is #2 but I don’t a current photo. Then as you see the end of the day photo shows that we are still embedded in Saharan dust. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel   |
| - Day 20 - Fuzzy Days |
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The drought continues. The Saharan dust snuffs out any rain possibilities. Though it seemed as it would rain, it didn’t. I finally had to clean the car windows before someone wrote “Wash Me” on it. They’re not going to stay shiny for long. There’s no rain in the forecast for more than a week. A young man, fresh out of high school, left for the Air Force Academy in Colorado, via New Jersey to visit relatives and he complained that it was gloomy, rainy, chilly....He already missed our tropical paradise! It is so easy! Soon our grands will be heading out, one to Baltimore and the other to Boston. They’re hoping it will be a quiet season so they don’t get stuck by a hurricane. It was interesting to hear from the students who left after Hurricane Maria left her devastation. They had to continue, the seniors, it was a critical time preparing to College, etc.. They said they would’ve preferred to stay and make do here with all the hardships of no internet service much needed for their senior year. The famous Buccaneer Hotel allowed these students of Good Hope/CountryDay School access to WiFi. So, let’s hope they will not be deterred by any storm, or have to leave earlier because of one. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel P.S. I had to write most of this post without a cursor. I lost it and could not retrieve it. Wasn’t easy. You will notice a mistake or two that could not be corrected.   |
| - Day 19 - The Difference ..... |
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These lazy, hazy, days of our Summer have a lot to do with Saharan dust, and the beginning of a train of tropical waves crossing from Africa. They’re not affecting us as much as they can later, but we’re having the cloudiness, and the breeze that often signifies an oncoming rain, which passes just below us. The dust can cause problems for those suffering from Upper Resiratory ailments, but it has to be really dense for that to happen. Uncovered cars exposed to everything, sport a film of Saharan dust all around. Last night we got one huge, heavy shower that lasted for about a minute. Good way to wash the cars, and I’m sure the plants were happy. It got a smile out of me even at 1:00 a.m. I want to share some photos taken at the Christiansted Fort in February when family and friends were visiting from NY. Notice the difference? It’s a lot clearer; the sky is bluer, as well as the sea. Mind you, for us locals, it can feel downright chilly, especially at night. That’s our winter after all. So, here are some photos taken from the top of the Fort with views to town and the Cay. That lovely little beach is visited by most visitors; I should say all visitors, on the one minute Ferry. There’s a Jazz Concert from the bandstand on the last Friday evening of each moth which locals and visitors alike enjoy immensely. The Fort was our defense “donkey years ago” whenever we were threatened. Take a look at those canons! Be well. Be Happy. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 18 - Keeping in Touch |
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It’s so wonderful to get emails from our Stormcarib friends. Several people responded to my “mysterious flower” - the Plumeria! Thank you so very much. Now, whenever asked, I can immediately respond. This also gave me a warm thought, that people are reading the posts and enjoying the photos. I like to read the other posts as well and I am glad for St. Lucia, who like us, have been waiting for rain and they got it, real RAIN ! I know how they feel. If only it would come in our direction. Every night I fall asleep to recorded rain, but there’s nothing like the real thing. The days, however, continue to be very pleasant with a delightful breeze. Early this morning, my east deck provided the first two photos and the west deck the third. Again, the purple flowers are unknown to me. It was very early when I took the photo, so the flowers were still closed. They grow on a vine, they ooze a milky liquid wherever a branch is cut or broken; very invasive plant. Unlike other plants, I discourage it’s growth in other parts of the garden. Thanks again for all the information received, plant websites, etc. Be well. Enjoy life one day at a time and may God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 17 - It’s Looking Good |
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Hopefully, it will rain. The waves are crossing below us; until they move up we cannot expect much, but we keep hearing abut the approach of one that can bring us some rain. Soon we’ll be begging for it to stop, right? That’s the way it goes. Now, what I heard today is worrisome. There have been several quakes in the mid-Atlantic. That’s why the tsunami signs were posted a few years back. We are overdue for a strong enough quake to cause one. I checked out the Quake Feed and, in fact, there were several in the 5. range. As long as the sirens are ready to go! They should have a drill for the man on the street, I know that store owners are not going to close their stores and run, but they would have to drop everything and run towards the hills if the real thing happens. Somehow, I don’t think people believe that there can be a tsunami, but it happened before and it can happen again. I encourage you to see THE IMPOSSIBLE, a movie about the true story of a family on vacation in Southeast Asia when the massive tsunami hit that whole region. 300,000 + people got killed; the family survived, but HOW!!! Today I want to share with you a favorite place when I was in elementary school. This scrawny kid loved reading and writing. One goes with the other, right? Both allowed me to get lost in a world of my own. And then, there is the mysterious flower, which no one can identify. I would like to know it’s name if anyone out there knows. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel This was my library when I was growing up. Now it’s for government affairs. We have a larger library now, on King Street. |
| - Day 16 - Perfect Weather for Dads |
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Hello Dads, family, friends of Stormcarib, I hope you are well and happy after a day according to your heart. Our weather here was comfortable; not hot at all. A cloud cover on and off was quite helpful. We are in the tropics, so we will have tropical days of high heat, scorching sun, but today there was even a breeze to make it extra pleasant. I have noticed that many tropical waves are coming off the coast of Africa. These have the potential later on to become those pesky storms that can form into hurricanes. We have to pray and hope that we can be avoided. However, whatever happens in Africa, weather wise, ultimately affects us in one way or another. Rain, we need, so let it be. Too much of that is not good either, but none of us is perfect, so we cannot expect the weather to be tailored to our needs. Without further ado, let me share some photos, which will be interesting to some and not to others maybe, but as I was at my sink at midday I noticed how the white Bougainvillea had grown and couldn’t resist. White Bougainvillea is not as common as the other colors, especially the red. The cloud cover above reflected the kind of day we had; not bad, considering the patches of blue and the sunshine that always manages to come through.. Enjoy life one day at a time. Be well, and may God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 15 - Cloudy, Sunny, Breezy...Some rain |
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We’re halfway through the first month of the hurricane season, and I invite all who want to visit to do so now. The season has been very friendly so far. We expect it to remain this way for some time as there are no visible threats. If you’re living in one of those rainy, flooded States, come on down, take a break. The problem is, you may not want to return. We want rain and it just might do so when you arrive, but have no fear, it doesn’t last long. This morning it was so delightful to see it raining for a change. It didn’t last long. We had spurts throughout the morning; that was it. The clouds and breeze kept the day comfortable. I wish all the real, good dads out there, a well deserved, happy Father’s Day. This one day is reserved especially for you. May it be celebrated with a great meal of your choice, and lots of laughter, if possible. Men can also receive flowers, even though it doesn’t seem manly. I’m sending you the Pride of Barbados; I wish I could say “of St. Croix”. Enjoy your day tomorrow. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 14 - Flaming Trees |
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It is still dry here. We haven’t had any real rain for a spell. I did notice some possible change in the weather in the near future. Today the wind was a bit stronger on our hill. That could mean there’s some rain on the way. There’s a rain forecast for Sunday, but that often fizzles to nothing. Maybe this particular wave means business. We certainly can use the rain. My husband wants me to measure the cistern in case we have to order water. In other words, I need to know all these things for when he’s no longer around. I asked, “what makes you think you’re going first?” It could be me. Anyway, I will measure the cistern water, just in case. Our Flaming Trees, or Flamboyant Trees as are known here, are finally bursting with blooms. This is kind of late for us. Ours usually bloom in May. The largest and original tree, which I have named the “LENNY TREE”, after Hurricane LENNY (1999), was so badly beaten up by Hurricane MARIA, that it no longer has its attractive canopy. I did not take a picture of it this time, but there’s one at the bottom of the property with a view of the sea in the background, which looks very sparse. It must have suffered the same fate. The Flamboyant trees are also called Royal Poinciana. I believe that every island in the Caribbean can boast of having beautiful varieties. It is an awesome sight, when you round a curve and there’s a breathtaking view of one or several trees in a row as if on fire, Perhapas that is why they’re referred to as “Flaming Trees” on some islands. The great part about these trees is that they have hundreds of buds ready to open on cue, for the next three months. Be well. Enjoy life one day at a time. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 13 - The Day of the Iguana |
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It seems to be raining everywhere on the planet, except here! We’re having refreshing breezes and beautiful sunsets, but no rain. Just hope it doesn’t come on Saturday. We’re going to have a “turtle watch” party. Seven turtles for seven guests. They will be released on the lawn and each person has to keep his/her eyes on the turtle. They can be very fast. There are four tropical waves crossing the Atlantic from Africa.They still seem too low for us to get any rain, but there are many more coming along. It looks busy. I couldn’t help taking photos of our signature view today. I’m sure you won’t mind, and, of course, the Iguana! Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 12 - Noni, mango treat, & a beautiful end of day |
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Who hasn’t heard of the Noni fruit? Interesting heal-all, that is, if you dare to venture near it. Hurricane MARIA took down the Divi Divi Tree in the tortoise domain and replaced it with a Noni plant (tree?). Thanks! It has grown and it provides the shade lost by the missing Divi. An advantage with the Noni is that when the ripened fruit falls the turtles eat it up. They have no taste buds, it seems, but then they eat centipedes, lizards if they can catch them, and carrion (any small dead animal). They’re not picky in the least. They carry a solid roof on their backs, so the hurricane was no challenge for them, except that wind irritates their eyes and they always stay indoors on a regular windy day. They have two “houses” one on either side of the compound. Today they enjoyed their first mangoes; that’s always a special treat. I could not resist the setting sun. It shows the kind of day we had. So I took a picture, but there’s a round spot above, which I cannot figure. It’s not the moon, nor a saucer, probably some reflection.. enjoy! Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 11 - Breezy |
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What a wonderful feeling to have that fresh breeeze all around. Amazing! We cannot see the wind; we see the palms and tree branches moving gently about, you feel it on your face and blowing hair, for those who have hair. And then, the wind can be gentle most of the time, but comes that rare event when the wind can blow to 185 mph+ and many people lose their houses, or parts of them. Up to this day, there are those who still have not had much help in the way of repairs. Some people are losing hope. There’s always so much Red Tape when it comes to individual cases; some just fall through the cracks. I recently heard a disturbing comment from a friend just returning from a farewell for a FEMA worker. Apparently, they will not be able to handle anything stronger than a Category 3 ! Hurricanes IRMA and MARIA were in the Cat 5 zone. I remember placing them in level 8! I pity anyone who gets hit by a hurricane this season. Today, I stopped at the wharf to take a picture of the little island, The Cay, on which is a lovely beach and a hotel. That’s where the one minute Ferry goes back and forth. And for the sake of some of Storm Carib fans, the Red-Footed Tortoises. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 10 - Mangoes, Saharan dust, and the Hurricane Season |
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They go together. Each is plentiful, and as the weeks progress the H season becomes more noticeable. Our fuzzy, hazy days have a lot to do with the Saharan dust blowing in this direction. Somehow, the heat seems more intense. There are so many mango trees all over the island, privately owned, as well as government, and in the wild, that bags of mangoes keep coming in my direction. Yummy! I’m glad because we never had any luck growing a mango tree. On second thought, it’s better to receive them than to clean up fallen mangoes each day. Our Red Footed Tortoises like them too, so, our friends who know this, usually have a separate supply of the fallen battered ones, for them. I’ve received some feedback about the photo of the Italian bread I posted yesterday. They turned out quite well, I must say, but I really don’t have the “hands” for kneading. I followed the tutorial on YouTube, except for the kneading part. My standard mixer with dough hook takes care of that part. Lucky me. Be well, and may God us all. Isabel |
| - Day 9 - Hot day, friendly evening |
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We were so busy rushing around getting ready for a dinner party at home that it felt hotter than ever. We usually remain in the garden where it’s cooler than on the deck, until the sun is low and it’s no longer so hot. After the guests left we had one of those quick passing showers with promises of more to come. I noticed something that could produce some rain, but this could be only wishful thinking. I see on the news how some people cannot get any relief from rain and flooding. It’s a continuous event in their lives. I don’t think I would like that at all. It must be very difficult. Let’s keep them in our thoughts and prayers. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel The Colombian Vine one night |
| - Day - 8 Grapes and Bread in the Mix |
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This has been quite another day, totally different than yesterday, yet the same in many ways. What was the same was the heat, especially at midday. I know that the banana baby loves it, and it benefitted from lots of “gray water”. We have friends who collect their kitchen and laundry water in a cistern built especially for watering plants. We don’t have one so we have to use a more rustic method, we have another young banana plant growing in a large square pot. And an avocado tree growing in a brown ceramic pot. That one is doing better ever since I dug in a coupie of used tea bags. Something I learned from a video on YouTube. Today, I could not help focusing on our seagrape tree. I found out that it was the first plant that Columbus saw when he sailed to st. Croix. These plants grow in a more sprawling, shady manner all along coast. They can grow to 50 ft and ours was at that height when it stood defiantly against the onslaught of Hurricane MARIA. It came down, but was not uprooted. When I saw it, I was not sad at all, I was glad, because now I would be able to reach the clusters of grapes without any problem. Well, it looks as if we are going to have grapes this year. Grapes equals wine, so my next thought was Italian bread and I baked two of them. Will share photos. A busy day, all in all. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 7 - No Rain in Sight |
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Since May 1 we haven‘t had any continuous soaking rain, just brief showers which hardly touch the ground. Not a good time to plant anything, even older plants like the crotons, if they don‘t get enough water, they die. Yesterday we planted a banana baby, off shoot of the mother plant. We got it from a friend and it can onlly sit in a bag with soil or so long. So, it was planted and we just water it when not using the Washing Machine, the outflow is channeled towards the plant. We shall see. Just hope we get some real rain soon. A while ago we got some drops, you could measure at least an inch between drops on the floor outside. That ain’t much at all. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel The banana baby |
| - Day 6- Hot Days on Sail |
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It was another most enjoyable day for people with sail boats! Being on the sea wasI used to enjoy speed boats, but anything that sways or rocks slowly made me seasick. In 1971, we made one of the last transatlantic trips on the Bremen going to Germany from New York, and returning on the Europa. The latter ship was a bit smaller than the former, so returning was a very difficult trip. We ran into some very rough seas and the ship was like a matchbox toy in the water. I had to get several shots, the motion sickness was so severe. Many passengers were likewise affected. So, no ships for me, no sailboats, at the moment the most I would do is a 1 minute Ferry Ride to the Cay where there is a very nice beach across from the boardwalk. Any visitors coming this way should check out the Hotel on the Cay. I am perfectly content with being a landlubber. There are quite a few waves getting ready to step off the coast of Africa. There’s hope for rain down the road. We planted a banana baby that needs it. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 5 - Hot and Humid day |
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A great day for air-conditioned people. We don’t have it, so we rely on fans. You can be be sure that I take any chance I have to step into a cool building if I’m out there. Unlike yesterday, same time, the sky to our north is kind of foggy. There seems to be some unstable weather over Puerto Rico, stretching back to the islands. However, the sky above us is bluer, just slightly fuzzy. I notice more boats in the harbor, as when they are seeking refuge; but then they could just be island hopping. They’re close to Brian’s open air night club, so even if they are not there they can enjoy the entertainment. Last night was Kareoke. I’m surprised the neighborhood dogs did not set up a howling! The evening is very pleasant, the heat of the day is done. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 4 - It’s getting hotter... |
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The threat in the Bay of Campeche has decreased considerably and there’s nothing of significance out there. Yet, we know we have to prepare for the worse while hoping for the best. Today, for example, I baked a YouTube bread recipe. Followed it step by step. The two long breads looked good, but I should have kneaded the dough more in my mixer, perhaps. So, I stashed one away in our large freezer for future reference, in case of a disaster. The other will be picked on until it’s finished. Otherwise it was a very nice 4th with a spectacular “See you tomorrow” by the sun. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel T
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| - Day 3 - Beautiful Weather |
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The Hurricane Season is the best time to visit. Well, yes and no. Yes, if you check out the Atlantic and make sure all is clear. No, if there’s a storm almost at the door. Well, believe it or not, it happens. I received an email days before Hurricane Maria arrived. The woman said she had tried calling the hotel to confirm their reservation for Saturday and was unable to reach anyone. I was surprised they wanted to risk the trip with a hurricane in the vicinity. They looked forward to this first trip to St. Croix so much that not even an approaching hurricane could change their plans. So, I offered to stop by the hotel and give them the message. They said they would contact them. The couple arrived on Saturday. The weather was beautiful and they enjoyed themselves taking pictures of the surroundings. She kept me posted. On Monday, they were advised to leave as the hurricane was aiming for the island. They managed to get the last two seats on the last flight out. Whew! Talk about a close call! Very early on Tuesday morning the rain began, and it rained and RAINED !! I found out not too long ago that Hurricane MARIA had record rainfall totals like none other in recorded weather history. To this day some folks are still trying to get their houses repaired. To anyone planning a trip here at this time or during the next months, please stay tuned. Be well and may God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Day 2 - Second Storm? |
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Here we are, folks, and already a second storm threatening. Invest 91L is far away over the Yucatán Peninsula with a 60 percent chance of developing into a cyclone. Whatever the case, It‘s going to bombard Mexico, perhaps Texas with the full effects of gusty winds and torrential rain. As for us here, the weather is more tranquil now. We do look forward to more rain; the drought has caused multiple fires. The Art Farm to our south has suffered a lot of damage. The tropical waves coming off the coast of Africa are at a lower Lattitude at the moment.That’s not going to last. Eventually, they will be on our level. While these waves produce much needed rain, they can also become deadly cyclones if the right ingredients are present. The Colorado State U predicted a slightly below average season, which means 13 named storms, 5 hurricanes, and 2 intense hurricanes. The Caribbean was forecast to have a 39 percent chance of seeing at least one major hurricane. That does not mean that it will impact St. Croix, but we must be prepared as if we are going to be. It has been a long weekend of graduations, including our senior, so I shall say good night. I will check in tomorrow. Be well. May God bless us all. Isabel |
| - Hurricane Season 2019 |
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Helloooo Storm Carib Family and friends! Would you believe it? Another season of suspense! However, the first predictions are not too bad, but rather confusing. On April 5th, CSU predicted a “below average” season, on May 6th, Weather Underground predicted a “slightly above” average season, and on May 23, NOAA predicted a “near average” season. So, what is “average”, I was asked! I will cover that tomorrow. For now I can tell you that on May 1st we had a vicious “non-discript” storm the likes of which we only see during a tropical system akin to a Tropical Storm. It was worthy of a name; huge lightning bolts, earth shattering thunder, and torrential rain, which lasted several hours . The NWS never mentioned it. But these past days we have had what they referred to as the “first official tropical wave” of the season from Africa. In the meanwhile, on May 20th, ANDREA, the first name storm, a Depression, formed below the Bahamas. It dissipated in a cold front soon after. Stay tuned and be prepared. It’s never too early. May God bless us all. Isabel |
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