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- Updates from the Islands -- - St.Croix (USVI) - - |
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| - Nov. 30 - Time to Sign Off ! |
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Dear fans and followers of Stormcarib, the 2021 Hurricane Season is over! After 183 days, and more than 366 photos of the actual weather, plants, flowers, and pets, it is time to sign off. I cannot even promise to be back on June 1, 2022. Sometimes it got too late at night to send out the update, but I couldn't help it when I thought of the wonderful people out there who have sent emails about how they enjoy my updates and photos. I want to thank you especially for writing to me, it means a lot. Please feel free to email me at any time if you wish. During the next couple of days we are expecting some rain from another system coming from the Gulf. It is not expected to be a significant amount, but any amount is good so that my husband can be spared watering the new plants. They are too far from the house to be watered with a hose. Be well, be happy, and "do not let your hearts be troubled", the best is yet to come! May God bless us all. Isabel Belardo Cerni - author of upcoming book: DONKEY YEARS AGO Double Bougainvillea for you. 😍 End of day photo: |
| - Nov. 29 - A Peaceful Hurricane Season for us |
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What a blessing it has been to have a second year of quiet weather this hurricane season. Our hearts go out to all the folks who suffered terrible impacts. Flooding has been a major weather hazard not only in the U.S. but all over the world. Let's hope and pray that the next season will bring calmer weather all around; that it will also be a year of health, peace, and prosperity for everyone. It certainly has been my pleasure through these last six months to send in updates to stormcarib. I know that I have my "fans" out there waiting each day for the updates and I thank stormcarib and the Caribbean Hurricane Network for making it possible. May God bless us all. Isabel, Another beautiful day..  End of day photo:  |
| - Nov. 28 - Beautiful Weather Prevail |
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Our visitors must be very happy. They have had mostly sunny skies, only an occasional brief shower. Except for the rip currents it would be 100% perfect. There are several areas in Central America and around the Caribbean where the weather is not as beautiful, rain, rain, rain. The folks are complaining that it is cold. After a warm/hot day I am happy for the cool evening, but 5 -10 days of rain can lower the clouds and make it very cold, No sunshine, no heat. There's a possibility that some of that rainy weather could reach us, according to the meteorologist of the Dominican Republic. We shall see and maybe not. We're almost at the end of the hurricane season, but that does not mean that we're completely out of the woods. However, it shall be the end of my updates, my weather diary for stormcarib including 2-3 photos of the day. I've enjoyed every minute of it, but there's no guarantee that I'll be back in 2022. I'll be 80 in February, way past retirement, but I'm leaving with you, my fans, a book I think you shall enjoy. May God bless us all. Isabel, Today's view from the "Opera Box".  The "Crown of Christ" plant in full bloom  Today's sunset  |
| - Nov. 27 - Almost there! |
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End of day photos: |
| - Nov. 26 - Very Windy today NO Rain ! |
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The wind was so strong that I think it blew the rain clouds away. It threatened to rain, but it never happened. I was happy for the visitors to our island, but my husband had the gardener plant some plants and he would have liked it to rain, but it didn't, so he had to water the plants. The gardener was going on to the lower garden to do some trimming there. Well, maybe tomorrow? Or better still. I'll pray for rain overnight. Be well, be safe! May God bless us all. Isabel, Rough seas, current, dangerous!  Today's sunset and afterglow on Schooner Bay   |
| - Nov. 25 - Thanksgiving Day 2021 - rough sea! |
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Did everyone have a happy Thanksgiving? I hope so. I saw a poster which read Thanksgiving is about Thanks and giving. If we give thanks to God and we give to those in need.That should be more than enough to make anyone happy. I was also happy that the weather was sunny until noon, then suddenly it became overcast, very windy and threatening to rain. It didn't, but according to the weather forecast from Puerto Rico the cold front should get here Thursday into Friday. Most of Central America and the Caribbean should get a lot of rain; in some places it will last for days, at least 5 - 10 days. At the moment it's very windy and cool. it will not surprise me if it starts raining overnight. Have a good night wherever you are. May God bless us all. Isabel.  seThreatening clouds  End of day photo with 2 the afterglow   |
| - Nov. 24 - Busy, Busy. Busy..... |
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I'm sure that many of us were in the same boat, cooking, baking, and cooking some more. I have to deliver the food for the needy before 9 a.m tomorrow, otherwise, I would be cooking in the morning instead. Hope it was a very happy and productive day for everyone and that tomorrow will be a very happy day for all. THANK YOU, dear "fans" who faithfully read my updates, which thanks to Gert and stormcarib, make it possible. May God bless us all. Isabel Early this morning..  End of day photo:  |
| - Nov. 23 - Cold Front Coming? |
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I heard this information from Meteorologist Ruben Garcia in Puerto Rico. The cold front should be arriving here Thursday into Friday, being the rainiest of the two days. Hopefully, on Thanksgiving Day, it will not be too rainy; it's kind of difficult to hold an open umbrella and food trays to feed the needy and the shut-in. Last year over 1000 meals were distributed. Many donations of prepared food are received each Thanksgiving Day at the lunchroom of my former school. It is a joint effort with others in the community. My seasoned turkeys are in the refrigerator waiting to be baked/roasted tomorrow. At least three sides will accompany that. I can just visualize most people doing the same task. Be happy, be thankful. May God bless us all, Isabel, Today's post card:  |
| - Nov. 22 - Time is Running! |
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These days the grocery stores are quite busy as there's a lot of cooking for Thanksgiving Dinner. Fortunately the weather is cooperating . It was another one of those days. There seems to be a shortage of potatoes. Looks as if some will have to go without mashed potatoes this time. Here in the Caribbean the potatoes are needed for "Potato Stuffing", a dish that looks like mashed yams but is really mashed white with lots of spices, tomato sauce, raisins, and hot sauce. (I just noticed that it's already the 23rd! It got really late today!) Many visitors are arriving for this holiday week. I'm so happy for them that the weather has been quite nice. I'm sure they don't mind a "spotty shower" now and then. With the temp. always in the mid 80's everyday, a refreshing, quick shower is most welcome. Be happy and stay well. May God bless us all. Isabel, Yesterday's weather:  End of day photo:  Afterglow on the clouds  |
| - Nov. 21 - It's Getting Close! |
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The end is within sight! We can say that in a few days the hurricane season will be over, that is, the official hurricane season.Today is the 174th day. Once more we have escaped. We were blessed with another quiet season. I hope I didn't jinx it. A lot can happen in a short space of time. So, let's remain vigilant. By all means hang on to your emergency supplies; you are going to need them for other emergencies. May God bless us all. Isabel, Today’s post card: A spotty shower during the day. End of day photo: |
| - Nov. 20 - Snow Storms ? Not here, no way! |
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That report from Weatherman Plus caught my eye, because those snowstorms, he said, were headed to the Northeast, precisely where my daughter joined the rest of our family for one week. Now the concern is if they arrive there before she returns, will she be able to? One of our flights from New York was delayed by four days in 1996 because of a blizzard. Fortunately, we don't have snow concerns here, however, the region is still very active. We are not out of the woods as yet. There could be another potential LENNY or OMAR in the Caribbean. Be well, be happy, and may God bless us all. Isabel, A lovely late afternoon moment  End of day photo:  The moon tonight  |
| - Nov. 19 - What a Difference a Day Makes |
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Yesterday was a beautiful rainy day and today was a beautiful sunny day. And during the night many people were watching the moon. I slept. The moon was shining in all its glory tonight! It was like daylight, almost. I heard something about another Cold Front coming, stronger than yesterday's. We shall see if that really happens. I hope and pray that our visitors will have beautiful weather. May God Bless us all. Isabel, A beautiful day Sunny lattice work with a gem. End of day photo: |
| - Nov. 18 - Very Rainy Day |
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According to the weatherman in Puerto Rico, this rainy day is going to be extended throughout the weekend. However, while checking some of the weather apps that i have, the percentage of rain is not high for the next few days. Today there was a 100% chance of precipitation. Did we ever get it.! And it continues. This is all due to some weather systems in the region as reported earlier. The sun did manage to come out in between some heavy downpours. I was caught in one as I walked from my vehicle to the post office. It definitely was an umbrella day. May God bless us all! Isabel, Earlier today..what a busy pier!!. Most of the day…..same view. End of day photo: more rain coming. Made it home just on time. |
| - Nov. 17 - Weather Gone Crazy |
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What a strange kind of day. The sea was rough-looking, strong current and the surf high on the reef. The sky was mostly cloudy, but it did not rain outright, just occasional spurts, it has been quite windy at times, then it would calm down, and so on. A few minutes ago it rained for a very brief moment. It's quite breezy and I noticed that we're being affected by a system above and to the right which has a trailing tail. That tail is the one that is disturbing our weather. I hope it goes away soon so that our visitors can enjoy a blue sky and sea. May God bless us all. Isabel, “Perfect weather to take a snooze in my master’s chair “. Rains showers End of day photo: |
| - Nov. 16 - The Breezes Have Arrived |
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For those of you who may not know or who forget, these breezes happen at this time of year and are referred to as “the Christmas breezes”. They are more and more refreshing as the sun sets earlier and rises later. By 5:30 p.m. it is almost dark and by that same time in the morning it's still dark. It will be getting darker earlier and longer until the 21st of Dec. Then the sun will start it's swing back and gradually the daylight lasts longer. The various weather patterns in the region also play a part in "the breezes". We had a lovely day and hope you did too. May God bless us all. Isabel Today’s weather End of day photo : |
| - Nov. 15 - Hurricane Season 2021 Is Almost Over ! |
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Almost ! As I heard on Deciphering Weather, there could also be storms after the 30th. We have to keep that in mind and not throw caution to the wind! I remember one year when Trinidad got hit by a powerful off-season storm in December which caused some serious damage and flooding. The National Hurricane Center no longer posts advisories after the 30, at least, they did not in the past. We're on our own. So, we always have to have emergency supplies in case of a surprise "weather attack". Always keep informed and updated. May God bless us all, Isabel de Fr Fr The tall ship SSV Corwith Cramer is in Town. |
| - Nov. 14 - Nice Weather Prevails |
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Even though there seems to be so much activity around us it's been very sunny with occasional spotty showers. We cannot complain. Those spotty showers are essential for the plants. Keeps them fresh and healthy. I love Kelly green. At the moment we have so many Ginger Thomas bushes loaded with bright yellow flowers, plus Plumbago, and red bougainvillea. They are so happy that we did not get a hurricane this year, and so am I ! May God bless us all. Isabel, Today’s postcard: End of day of day photo: |
| - Nov. 13 - Rip Currents! |
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Beautiful weather, but the sea has been disturbed by the frontal boundary which is now an Extratropical System Invest 96L. This is the one that’s trying to get the “A” name of the new list. A rip current was issued today to alert swimmers of this possible danger. Hope everyone was cautious. I’m happy for our visitors that there’s nothing worse to deal with. May God bless us all. Isabel, Beautiful weather between the showers. |
| - Nov. 12 - Almost There ! |
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The days are passing quickly and soon the 2021 hurricane season will be officially over. However, there's a lot of activity all around the vicinity. The Cold Front/ Frontal Boundary is trying to become the first name storm of the new list. If it does it will be in the open Atlantic, however, we are being affected by the sweeping tail. Frequent showers are part of it. This should still be with us for the rest of the weekend as I heard from an earlier report. There is still a lot of sunshine so we don't really have dreary days as on the mainland and other countries. Nevertheless, when we do have such a day I play a fireplace video available on Youtube with or without music, just the crackling sound of the burning wood is good enough. Be safe, be happy! May God bless us all. Isabel, Today was another one of those days! Our orchids growing on a tree trunk. End of day photo: |
| - Nov. 11 - Veterans' Weather |
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I must say that our Veterans had reasonable weather today. It was a mixed bag, but in general, it was good for celebrating the day. We thank all of you for your service to our country. It is getting colder on the mainland, so if you can, come on down. There is nothing big, like a hurricane, threatening us at the moment. I'm keeping an eye on the Western Caribbean, hoping nothing brews there. Be well, be happy, and may God bless us all. Isabel, This is our porthole facing north from where we can safely watch a daytime storm. |
| - Nov. 10 - Rainbow ! |
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This morning after a brief rain shower we were blessed with a beautiful rainbow. I'm always happy to see one because of the promise God made with the rainbow to never again cover the whole earth with 40 days of rain. I just heard a weather report from the weatherman in the Dominican Republic about the increase of rain throughout this week. We know how it is in the tropics. It seldom rains nonstop, always sunshine in between. It would have to be a tropical wave or storm to cause continuous rain, and at the moment we don't have one. The rain that's coming is part of a frontal system which is moving ever so slowly this way. It stretches from Central America up through the major Caribbean Islands and farther up. We shall see how it progresses. May God bless us all. Isabel A spotty shower This morning’s rainbow End of day photo: |
| - Nov. 9 - Showers today |
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We had some rain today, otherwise, the day was very pleasant. The "spotty showers" are not enough to ruin anyone's beach day ; they pass quickly. The temperature is cooler now with a high of 84, but in a few days it will be warmer again, and quiet as far as cyclones go. We are very happy that we have not had the stress of a hurricane. Let's hope and pray it continues. May God bless us all. Isabel St. Thomas and Virgin Gorda in the distance. Rain showers End of day photo: |
| - Nov. 8 - An Unexpected Tree Frog Concert |
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Usually tree frogs are singing their hearts out after a good rain, but it hasn't rained (unless they saw the 'rain alert' on my phone) Well, they are having a great time out there! The weather continues to be amazingly beautiful. There are some tropical waves traversing Africa heading towards the Atlantic, their future is uncertain. It is only when they splash into the ocean that we find out if there's any potential for developing into a cyclone. Be safe out there. Be ready for anything. May God bless us all. Isabel, Another beautiful day:   |
| - Nov. 7 - One Beautiful Day After Another |
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I have been noticing more boats in the bay. The weather has been so amazingly quiet that people may be convinced that the hurricane season is over. With more dust on the way, there's no chance for rain, much less for a hurricane. We hope that for everyone's sake we don't have to worry anymore this season. That would be two years in a row that we do not have a hurricane. But then, we still have to keep in mind that the hurricane season is not over. We should wait until December to breathe easy. May God bless us all. Isabel, Having a friendly conversation End of day photos: Silhouettes |
| - Nov.6 - November Threats |
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We are not out of the woods as yet. There are some tropical waves coming from Africa, according to the Two-Day Graphical Tropical Weather Outlook. They will likely have to contend with Saharan dust. We shall have to wait and see. In the meanwhile, we continue having beautiful weather. May God bless us all. Isabel, From the porch ….  |
| - Nov. 5 - Beautiful Weather |
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The sky is constantly changing. Interesting to watch. An occasional scattered shower, the sunshine glistening on petals and leaves; the blue sky decorated here and there with those lovely puffy clouds, Soon more and more visitors will be arriving. We have been truly blessed this hurricane season. May God bless us all. Isabel, So peaceful .. |
| - Nov. 4 - Showery Weather |
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What a combination! Sunny and showery! How can anyone not thrive with such ingredients! BUT is it going to continue, so blissful? Again, today I heard about a potential mid-November storm. Hmmm, that reminds me of the past. We'll put that on the shelf and keep an eye on it. If anything develops, I certainly will keep you informed. May God bless us all. Isabel, Lovely weather! Love those puffy clouds! End of day photo:  |
| - Nov. 3 - So Far, So Good |
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We had some lovely rain today! We always need rain in the tropics. Everything looks better, tastes better, and washes away all the dust and pollutants, etc.. I must say that the visitors do get their share of fair weather, beach weather, so I don't think they mind a shower now and then. As far as anything brewing, it does not look like it, with the exception of my friend at Deciphering Weather. Hope the next "A" storm does not materialize. May God bless us all. Isabel RAIN ! End of date photo: |
| - Nov. 2 - Starry Skies |
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The hurricane season seems to be winding down. So it would like us to think, but I know better, I experienced one all by myself in November '99, a Category 4 at that. Unforgettable! I have a chapter all about it in my upcoming book - DONKEY YEARS AGO (a dialectic saying). Let's hope and pray the season is over. May God bless us all. Isabel, Lizard on a porcupine End of day photo : |
| - Nov. 1 - Home Stretch |
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Here we are! The last month of the Hurricane Season 2021! Suspense! There are a couple areas being monitored, but they don't look threatening, at least not for our area. Nevertheless, be aware. Be happy. May God bless us all. Isabel, Our ferry just arriving from St. Thomas. See the islands to the north. From the porch …  End of day photo: |
| - Oct. 31 - Scattered Showers |
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This is the 153rd day of the hurricane season 2021 and at this point it has become a lamb. October was a lot less active for us than the weather experts predicted. Thanks to the Saharan dust which has dried up many a tropical wave allowing only scattered showers through as we have been seeing these days. Last night as I finally lay my head on the pillow along came one of those soothing showers, it passed by and after a pause, another one. At the moment a huge part of the MDR is occupied by dust making it difficult for any storms to form. Yet, we cannot rule out another storm. "Wrong way LENNY" came from the west, not from Africa, and that was in the middle of November. So remain prepared. You never know. May God bless us all. Isabel Early morning |
| - Oct. 30 - The Quietest October |
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The fact that it was quiet was due as always either to Saharan dust, or wind shear, or both. There certainly were enough tropical waves out of Africa. The dust unfortunately has been bringing volcanic ash mixed in as we noticed today at the beach. When we were in Southern Chile years ago on a camping trip, we saw the first black sand beach. It was regular soft, sifty sand, but black. In the vicinity was the Villarrica volcano, which erupted two years before, one of many times during its life. I reflected on that today. Be well, be happy! May God bless us all. Isabel, Mermaid Beach today: End of day photo: |
| - Oct. 29 - A Cold Front in the Area |
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In spite of the cold front our weather should still be agreeable. We may get some passing showers and the temperature should be cooler, but that's about it, no snow 😊 ! The cold front, according to Meteorologist Ruben Garcia, in Puerto Rico, will mostly affect Cuba, Haiti and Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and parts of Puerto Rico. We plan to go to the beach tomorrow. It always depends on the weather. May God bless us all. Isabel Today’s postcard: End of day photo: |
| - Oct. 28 -Another Lovely, Quiet Day |
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Dry and warm. It was 90 degrees when we were having lunch. Rain alerts came and went, obviously the rain went somewhere else. So, we continue enjoying a beautiful hurricane season. May God bless us all. Isabel Lovely day Ginger Thomas -the territorial flower is in full bloom at our place and all over the island . End of day photo: |
| - Oct. 27 - Shorter Days |
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We're at that time of year when the days are getting shorter. The sun rises later and sets earlier. We're having very nice weather with no imminent threats, so for those of you who are planning a visit, this is a great time to do so. Everyone be happy, be safe. May God bless us all. Isabel End of day photo: |
| - Oct. 26 - Quiet night |
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It's quiet on the homefront. No storms in the near future. Will 2021 turn out to be as quiet as 2020 ? That would be wonderful, but it's not over, until it's over. Let's remain in preparedness mode. Sometimes tropical waves develop right at our back door. Be safe and happy. May God bless us all. Isabel Today’s weather End of day photo: |
| - Oct. 25 - It's raining RAIN!! |
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As I write it's pouring and the little tree frogs are celebrating! During the long drought they had no cause to celebrate. Does anyone know whatever happens to them.? During dry weather? Those nights are very quiet, not a sound, not very tropical. If anyone out there knows anything about these creatures please share. The potential All Hallows Eve storm seems to have vanished. That's fine, rain like this is what we need and enjoy. The cisterns and our extra tanks are filling up, and the deer need not roam about looking for water. They have lots of pools up in the hills. Be well, everyone. May God bless us all. Isabel Today’s postcard weather  End of Day photo:  |
| - Oct. 24 - The Weather Gurus Are Silent |
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That silence can only mean good news. The possible cyclone for the end of the upcoming week will not be a reality after all ?? That would be the best news ever. Who needs a cyclone anyway. Rain is the magic word. Early this morning we got a whiteout shower. It did not last long, just long enough to refill the little pond in our driveway. The one that our dog Rio loves to jump into and about. After the rain a beautiful rainbow appeared! What a way to start Sunday as we prepared to go to church. It was the beginning of a wonderful day, Hope yours was too. May God bless us all. Isabel Early Sunday morning rain. The rainbow End of day photo: |
| - Oct. 22 - This is the 144th day of the Hurricane Season |
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So far, St. Croix has fared quite well. There has been flooding advisories during some of the more potent tropical waves, otherwise, we have not experienced a devastating storm. Nevertheless, it's not over and should remain in a state of preparedness. So far, so good. May God bless us all. Isabel End of day photo: |
| - Oct. 22 - This Month So Far is Not As Active ...... |
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October is not as active as thought. Well, thanks to the dry air and wind shear, right? Had that not been present some of those potent waves could have easily developed into monsters. There is a possibility that a wave can develop on time for All Hallows Eve, or Halloween. We don't want storms, but a stormy day once in a while is most welcome. Let us hope and pray that October goes out like a lamb. May God bless us all. Isabel Another nice day for visitors & locals Looking towards schooner bay End of day photo: |
| - Oct. 21 - A Halloween Trick Coming This Way.?? |
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Did I hear right? Did the Deciphering genius really say that a potential tropical system will be heading this way by the end of October? Yikes! He did say that. Ha! we thought we were out of the woods, right? Well, if we're not storm-ready this is the time to start, just in case. In the meanwhile we have been getting some hefty RAIN showers in Christiansted where I'm located. We were high and dry for a long spell this year, so we're very happy for the rain. A BIG thank you to all the stormcarib fans who have contacted me. May God bless us all. Isabel Today’s RAIN ! End of day photo: |
| - Oct. 20 - The Latest : Increasing Activity Next Week in the Atlantic |
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Our weather lately consists of a mixed bag of sunshine and showers. Everything is green and happy looking. I like trimming and lawn mowing with my battery powered tools, but what's sorely lacking is time. The days are getting shorter, so my favorite time to do garden work is late afternoon and the daylight is dwindling fast. Besides that, I began writing a book in March of 2020 during our lockdown and I'm still at it having only 1 hour a day to work on it. Hopefully it will be out sooner than later. Be well, be happy and may God bless us all. Isabel End of day photo |
| - Oct. 19 - Experts are Looking for Storms |
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Well, they might very well have one, but not until next week. Today we had some really good rain. The sun shone as well, so we can say it was a perfectly nice day. (It is pouring now as I write.) May God bless us all . Isabel Late afternoon End of day photo: |
| - Oct. 18 - No New Tropical Cyclones |
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None whatsoever ? Isn't that great news! At least not for the next five days! May God bless us all. Isabel Beautiful silky sea! End of day photo: |
| - Oct. 17 - Showery Weather |
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The showers are expected to continue during the week. No tropical activity is expected this coming week. Sounds good. I am doing container gardening and they're coming along great especially on the west side of the house.The showers have been very beneficial. Hurricane season is still on-going until Nov. 30 and beyond, just getting a break. with Covid it was different, three more people died. Be happy, be well. May God bless us all. Isabel Early this morning. Benji and Skypee End of day photo: |
| - Oct. 16 - Quiet Spell |
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Let's not be deceived! It's not over. Towards the end of October there will be another threat. November can also have some surprises in store. The last storm I saw and experienced in the middle of November 1999 was Hurricane LENNY. It came from the Western Caribbean and by the time it arrived close to St. Croix, it was a Category 4 hurricane. My grandson was born days before in Spain and is looking forward to celebrating his 22nd birthday! So, it's been a while, but from what I've been hearing there will be some action in November this year. I prefer to live one day at a time. May God bless us all. Isabel A beautiful October day! This morning the sea was like glass. |
| - Oct. 15 - A Busy Month Ahead? |
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The sea in the Caribbean is very warm and deep, waiting for the right moment. The potential number of storms has gone up to 27 in the record-keeping of Deciphering Weather. The MJO is suppose to pick up in about 10 days when the activity will pick up again. May God bless us all. Isabel Very calm A glorious sunset |
| - Oct. 14 - A Calmer Day |
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The thunderstorms last night knocked out power for a while and today again as repair work was being done in stages. The storms surprised most because it was not announced as such. Rain was coming. It did not come from 92L nor did it seem to come from 93L which was more disappointing than the former. It came up from the south and it was packing a lot of rain. It was a blessing as we had not had rain like that in a long time. The NHC is keeping its eye on another system which came off the coast of Africa and should be in our vicinity next week. May God bless us all. Isabel The angry sky prevailed  The way to the Lower Gardebmn End of day photo : |
| - Oct. 13 - THUNDER STORM!!! |
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It’s coming up from the south, curving around Puerto Rico, over us and around. It came from the west earlier now it’s coming from the east. Heavy, torrential rain the likes of which we have not seen for a long time. I hope everyone is keeping safe out there. There must be a lot of flooding. According to The Weather Channel the flood advisory is only for St. Croix. Up to 4 inches of rain have fallen with another 1-2 inches more before it’s all over. I bet all cisterns are overflowing. May God bless us all. Isabel  |
| - Oct. 11 - Does Invest 93 L pose a threat for us? |
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It is becoming more likely, but not worth holding one's breath as yet. It could bring us more rain than 92 L and that is most welcome especially after having had such a long drought. This was the driest year as I recall and never have so many dead deer been picked up in the vicinity of the town in the past, including one in our property. Now, with the rain we've had recently, there should be many pools of water in the hills where the deer usually live. There's still a good bit of hurricane season left. Let's hope and pray that we can be spared a hurricane in our region. May God bless us all. Isabel Our shy today End of day photo: |
| - Oct. 10 - The Passage of Tropical Wave #1 |
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We got rained on today, but it was not a continuous event as I thought it would be, rather spurts of heavy rain, then blue skies, and so on. By evening the sky was almost clear with no other sign of rain, however, as I write it's raining again and there is rain in the forecast for this coming week into the next due to the two tropical waves. Both systems are being monitored by the National Hurricane Center. Looking east to Africa, there are other TWs coming off the coast. It's not over yet. May God bless us all. Isabel, This mornings rainbow with the first rain. End of day photos: |
| - Oct. 9 - Two Tropical Waves on the Way |
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We are looking forward to the rain. The ground needs a good soaking. The Saharan dust was far less today and the sun was brighter. It certainly looked like a perfect day for the beach on the Cay across from the wharf as we could see from our house on the hill. Tomorrow could be a different matter. The rain is forecast to arrive with the first tropical wave by 5 a.m. and increase throughout the day to more than 80% and that should continue for several days with the second tropical wave behind it. Looks as if we have to just relax indoors, if we can, and enjoy the long-awaited rain. May God bless us all. Isabel A friendlier day today End of day photos: |
| - Oct. 8 - Saharan Dust is Back! |
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Yes, it is back, but apparently with an added unhealthy ingredient from the volcano en La Palma. People with respiratory ailments are urged to be cautious. They should not be outdoors. My husband and I ran into an old acquaintance we hadn't seen in a long time and he was using oxygen. Don’t know if it was related. The dust was like “London fog” and apparently it is suppose to get worse. I hope the promised rain comes and washes it all away, unfortunately, the reverse often happens. Let’s enjoy the Columbus Day weekend as best we can. Here we also celebrate V.I. / Puerto Rico Friendship Weekend. May God bless us all. Isabel Saharan dust… End of day photos: |
| - Oct. 7 - RAIN Event Coming! |
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I've been hearing about this rain from the tropical wave that's approaching the Leeward Islands over the weekend into the next week. It should be a significant amount. This is all wait and see. I know some folks here must be making plans for the long weekend which requires good, dry weather. In our case, our guests will probably miss out on the Sunday afternoon in the garden. But if we have to move indoors we have a nice, large covered deck where we can do the same. So, regardless of the weather the next days, I wish you a wet or dry fun long weekend, May God bless us all. Isabel, Two freighters! The pier sure is busy! Looks like a bird to me… End of day photo: |
| - Oct. 6 - There's a Second Peak of the Hurricane Season |
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We have been so quiet, so untouched by any tropical system this year, just like 2020. But is that about to change? OMAR came in October. I remember it well. A 130mph hurricane which swept around from the Caribbean to the South of St. Croix, came around to the north, sank many boats in the bay, debris washed up all the way to the band stand, a tree was uprooted right by the parking lot at the fort, and the steeple which was set to ring out the hour was silenced once more. But the lovely spray of orchids growing out from the trunk of the divi-divi tree in the middle of our driveway, was able to withstand the 130 mph onslaught. I hope and pray we don't have the likes of another OMAR this year. It did cause a lot of damage. May God bless us all. Isabel There goes the St.John Ferry! Rough surf out there. End of day photo: |
| - Oct. 5 -Two Tropical Waves in the Main Development Region |
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One of the tropical waves could be coming this way, hopefully only rain, Next week we shall have a clearer ideaToday has been a real cozy, rainy day. Everything is looking nice and fresh, and green, My battery-powered lawn mower will be getting a lot of exercise and so will l. Remember to stock up on emergency supplies. May God bless us all. Isabel Rain clouds brought rain End Of day photo: |
| - Oct. 4 - A Mixed Bag of Weather Today |
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The disturbance to our left is causing the breezy conditions that we are having at this moment. It is very busy in the At lantic. A tropical wave could be coming around in the near future. That would be good! We need the rain. The dust has lifted considerably which makes it possible for the moisture to get through. Keep an eye on the weather! May God bless us all. Isabel End of day photo-( Oct. 4) |
| - Oct. 3 - The Saharan Dust Not as Dense Today. |
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It certainly was a clearer day today, but not exactly a SUN day, however, the beaches would have been pleasant. This week we can relax a bit, but the second week of October should bring an increase in tropical activity. Be ready! May God bless us all. Isabel A lovelier day today. The Crepe Myrtle in full bloom. End of day photo: |
| - Oct. 2 - The Saharan Dust is Back! |
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We have been having the finest hurricane weather ever; blue skies, blue sea, until today. We had a few heavy downpours which was great, but then It remained overcast, very overcast. So, after seeing the movie KRAKATOA, I felt influenced. What if it was volcanic dust. But no, we are quite familiar with the dust. How long is it going to last? Could be days..! However, La Nina seems to be returning. That means an increase in tropical activity which could last well into November. May God bless us all. Isabel Today’s rain - before the dust. End of day photo: Saharan Dust! |
| - Sept. 30 - Last Day of the Infamous Month |
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I don't know for a fact, but it seems to me that some of the most horrendous hurricanes happened in September. For the folks in St. Croix, I believe that the most horrible one was HUGO in 1989, horrible because it caused catastrophic destruction as was never seen before. The shabbiness of constructions and the total disregard for the power of these storms led to a devastation from one end of the island to the next. HUGO became the "Master Teacher". New codes were in place and inspectors inspected. I know about that especially since they were at every phase of the construction of our house, They held up the work for one week because of some detail not exactly as it should be. I think they just loved the view! Since HUGO people now pay attention and make the necessary preparations well in advance just in case. Post Hurricane HUGO construction was built for hurricane endurance, therefore, whenever we get powerful impacts from passing storms little damage. This was seen when 4 yrs ago Hurricane MARIA approached with 175 mph winds clipping Fredricksted on it's way up to Puerto Rico. Some pre-Hugo houses were severely damaged. So, is the season over? Not at all, I heard that some storms are waiting in the wings especially for the second week of October. Let us remain prepared and alert, for hurricanes and other emergencies. May God bless us all. Isabel End of day photo: |
| - Sept. 29 - Tropical Storm VICTOR ! |
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As of 5 p.m. today the disturbance near the Cabo Verde Islands was deemed worthy of the upgrade to a name storm. It could be coming this way, We have a lot of time to watch it. So we're almost out of names. But have no fear, there's a new list waiting in the wings. We might need it at that as the second week in October is supposed to be a very active time in the Caribbean. So rest easy, pray, and prepare, just in case. May God bless us all. Isabel, Early evening in the bay. End of day photo: |
| - Sept. 28 - The Atlantic is Bursting with Energy! |
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One of those new ones fresh out of Africa will be heading this way, but apparently not as a hurricane. We shall see if it comes to pass. Up to yesterday, I was complaining that we were not getting any rain. Well, surprise! Last night after 11 pm the rain came with a vengeance, huge lightning followed by the sky breaking thunder. I checked the radar on Weather.com and I believe that Hurricane SAM was on our longitude. That was probably a rain band. On Thursday morning it will be on our latitude the closest it will be to our location over 500 miles away. It certainly has been a very active season. May God bless us all. Isabel, A beautiful morning after the thunderstorm last night. End of day photos: |
| - Sept. 27 - Almost at the end of the List! |
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Before the end of this month the last two name storms should be making their approach towards the Caribbean. They are now classified as #2 and 90 L , I understand that one of them should be heading this way, mostly as a tropical wave, otherwise, everything is going up north, and now also through the Caribbean. It looks endless. The NHC is getting ready to start the next list of names. God help us, may we all be safe, wherever storms trek. The heavy rain today did not make it to our neck of the woods. My daughter said it rained for hours where she was and there was a lot of flooding. Tomorrow they are pouring cement on our road so I hope we don't get a deluge then. May God bless us all. Isabel Somebody else’s RAIN ! End of day photo: |
| - Sept. 26 - Not Out of the Woods as Yet |
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We still have a while before we can breathe easy. Hurricane SAM is a powerful hurricane, which will probably remain most of it’s life in the Atlantic. That would be good for everyone. There is a possibility of it going into the mid Atlantic as Dave said, or even Boston, but not all the models are in agreement. As for us, SAM will pass us safely to the North, nevertheless, we cannot let our guard down. We need some beneficial rain and it seems that one of the next waves from Africa will bring us that rain. This is the hurricane season and we need to remain alert and prepared until the end of November. May God bless us all. Isabel Sunday morning The Spider Lily Sunday evening |
| - Sept. 25 - Hurricane SAM a Cat. 4 !! |
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Today we were at the Buccaneer Hotel's Mermaid Beach, where a sparse number of people enjoyed the beautiful sea and beach. The Hurricane Hunters are here from where they fly out to get the data on SAM. Not sure if they have been out as yet, the hurricane is still far away and slowing down. That's bad, sounds like what HUGO did in 1989. It slowed down to 6 mph and crawled slowly over St. Croix burning every bit of flora, leaving a totally devastated land. It was a dry hurricane with such wind as 245 mph that even broke the wind meter at the airport. It was the salt and the wind that swept over the island like a fire! The rain came afterward when 95% of the roofs were gone. It was a night of terror! Let there not be a repetition of that for anyone. May God bless us all. Isabel Very early this morning Under the palms at Mermaid Beach. End of day photo: |
| - Sept. 24 - Keeping Both Eyes on SAM ! |
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I hope everyone is keeping watch! Hurricane SAM seems to be following the European model which brings it closer to the Caribbean. It is the most trusted of all models. It has always been accurate. It will be a category 4 by the time it gets to our neighborhood. I fear for the folks on the most northern islands. Let's hope and pray that all will be well. May God bless us all. Isabel Yellow plums are hurricane plums. End of day photo: |
| - Sept. 23 - Tropical Storm SAM ! |
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T. S. SAM has winds of 60mph and is aiming to become a major hurricane as indeed it has already been projected by the NHC. It would not surprise me if by 11 pm tonight it will be a hurricane. It’s also aiming to come very close to the Northern Leeward islands, if not through the islands. I heard a weatherman today say that the waves generated by the storm in the vicinity of the islands could go up to 85 ft. high. All the islands to the north can be greatly impacted by the sea, the wind, and the rain bands. When youttt hurricane LENNY passed us about 45 miles to the south with the strong winds of a Cat 4, almost 5, Re it felt as if it was right on top of us. Let’s hope and pray that SAM moves farther away!! May God bless us all. Isabel, Very busy pier today! End of day photo: |
| - Sept. 22 - Tropical Depression # 18 |
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Jja We have a Depression to our east which is looking for Major Hurricane Status, It will reach that status, but may not necessarily reach our islands. Nevertheless, we have to prepare as if it will. Some of the computer models have it passing to the north, The European model has it passing through the most northern islands. We can be impacted though not directly. Monitor it closely. May God bless us all. Isabel Beautiful evening  End of day photo:  |
| - Sept. 21 - The Northern Leewards On High Alert ! |
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It's still far away, but 98 L is already causing a lot of anxiety as we reminisce on our last experiences with Hurricanes IRMA and MARIA four years ago. If it remains a weaker system it will come this way from what I understand, which means it will be here by next week Thursday. On the other hand it can go the way of the others, to the northwest, or even out to sea. Hurricane preparedness is the key to remaining safe during the worst of it. Please monitor 98 L each day and prepare accordingly. May God bless us all. Isabel, Another lovely day End of day photo: |
| - Sept. 20 - Watching 98L |
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Tropical Storm PETER is passing quite far from us, however, last night we had the rumbling of thunder, flashes of lightning, a strong wind and light rain. We are farther south so I believe that the more northern islands must have been impacted with an increase of what we got. Now our concern turns to 98L which is already forecast to become a powerful hurricane. Most of the computer models have it moving west until just before the islands when it will lift farther away as in the case of PETER. So, we must monitor this system for two reasons. First, because it will become a major hurricane and lastly, because it is heading in our direction! Stay tuned to 98 L! May God bless us all. Isabel, TS PETER’s sky End of day photo : |
| - Sept. 19 - Tropical Storm Peter |
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Today is the fourth anniversary of Hurricane MARIA. It was a powerful storm and even though it only impacted the western tip, the hurricane force winds covered the whole island causing a lot of damage and knocking out power for months. it approached St. Croix with 175mph winds. As it made its way up towards Puerto Rico we were warned that the strongest winds would be felt between 11 pm and 4 am. We were exhausted from all the preparation so we retired. The storm was very fierce out there, but in the secure hurricane refuge downstairs I slept the whole night. Can't help saying it again. Now Tropical Storm PETER is passing us to the north on Tuesday. Hopefully we can get some rain out of it. This year has been mostly dry. Tropical Storm ROSE could present a serious threat by the end of next week. We have to monitor it carefully. May God bless us all. Isabel, Looks like rain across the way.. End of day photo: |
| - Sept. 18 - Tracking Invest 95 L |
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No Internet last night, so no update. Latest word today on Invest 95 L is that it will pass 100 -300 miles from the islands . However, they expect rain to spread through the region from Monday afternoon to Wednesday. Rain will be most Welcome. As we breathe a sigh of relief about this storm passing by, a friend told me today that we may not be as lucky with one behind it. We shall see. May God bless us all. Isabel We had the Blues today. End of day photo: The setting Sun to the West kissed the cloud to the East. |
| - Sept. 16 - Watching 95 L ! |
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My post yesterday was for the 15th, but I sent it out 1 minute late. We are in suspense! Most people don't seem to get adequate information. I keep hearing and seeing different things in my research. The spaghetti model plots on stormcarib shows 95 L moving a distance from the islands. Is that the most recent information? I heard one of the weathermen in Puerto Rico say and showed in a more updated map how the disturbance had dropped a bit to the south and I think Invest 95 L could bring us some rain. With each day we should know more. May God bless us all. Isabel What a difference a day makes! This cloud speaks volumes… End of day photo: |
| - Sept. 15 - Thunderstorms! |
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Finally! Heavy rain saturated the thirsty, dry ground. Three thunderstorms came through today dumping copious amounts of rain. It was an answer to prayer. At the moment, the tree frogs are having their greatest concert ever. They are very happy when it rains. Those invisible little creatures are so small, yet they are so loud. The louder, the happier they are. In the meanwhile, we are keeping an eye on Invest 95L. If it develops into a strong storm it will pass the islands to the north. That being the case, why did powerful hurricane HUGO, known as a Cape Verde storm come straight through the islands causing major destruction? In today's local newspaper the AVIS urged all residents to pay attention to this developing system. We hope it misses the islands especially if it's a hurricane. May God bless us all. Isabel The St. Croix AVIS todayu  Whiteout conditions  End of day photo:  |
| - Sept. 14 - Suspense to the East! |
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Will 95L become a real menace, or will it go out to sea .. Waiting and wondering and monitoring what could be our first storm. But if it is going to be like 2020, we spent that season surrounded by 30 storms and none of them touched us. This year could very well be the same. I just wish we could get more rain on our part of the island. It has been raining a lot to the west. The last update on 95L showed it moving a bit lower than before, but we won't know for sure what it's going to do until closer to the weekend. Stay tuned to all information on TV, radio, internet, etc... May God bless us all. Isabel Early morning clouds Evening at the pier End of day photo |
| - Sept. 13 - Watching 95 L - Our Potential Storm |
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Yesterday I totally forgot to mention Tropical Storm Nicholas! It's going to drop a ton of rain after all is said and done in Texas, Louisiana again, unfortunately, and Mississippi. Our current concern is 95L which is aiming for the islands in the Caribbean among which is our own little gem. There is a chance that it could veer off to the north, but that depends on various factors. If it's on the weak side it can stay West, if it's on the strong side it can turn away and up before reaching us. Needless to say that those of us who are keeping track know the importance of monitoring a system and preparedness. Some people are unaware until the storm is at the front door. Be alert, be ready at all times. Ma y God bless us all. isabel Noon-ish photo  End of day photo:  |
| - Sept. 12 - Cannon balls from Africa! |
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There are several waves lining up on land in Africa, one is off the coast and could be a threat for us, the other behind it also has to be watched. I heard today that the Season could be longer due to the many waves heading over land to the Atlantic. Then there are the homegrown ones; the one in the Bay of Campeche is threatening Texas and Louisiana with a "ton" of rain according to the Deciphering Weather Update. That one is close to becoming the "N" storm. Another system off the Carolina coast is trying to form; it will eventually impact the Northeast. I am in suspense as to what we can expect in less than 10 days. May God bless us all. Isabel, Interesting cloud formation Ollie the panther End of day photo: |
| - Sept. 11 - Raining Tears… |
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How can anyone forget.? The day was somber, .it was even reflected in our weather. We not only had some real, soaking rain for a change, but one booming thunder. Next week we must keep our eyes on a TW coming off the coast of Africa. That one will be bringing bad news for us. It is looking like a hurricane by next weekend. We must monitor it carefully and be prepared. May God bless us all. Isabel. Looking like rain! RAIN! End of day photo |
| - Sept. 10 - the Peak of the Hurricane Season |
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There are disturbances popping up all around the Atlantic Basin, and a monster wave coming off the coast of West Africa. The weather Apps are showing several days of rain. It makes me hopeful, however, as has happened, weather patterns change and we get more dry weather instead. This time it looks more promising. A comparison was made today with the 2020 Season when many name storms developed after the peak of the season and a total of 30 name storms made it. It seems as if the same will happen this year; that was the impression I got. Let's just keep praying for rain only. May God bless us all. Isabel, An American Flags fly high on a cranexz End of day photo: |
| - Sept. 9 - It's HOT, HOT, HOT ! |
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It seems hotter with each day. Today it felt like 106 degrees, according to weather data but it felt like much more. Now there are two waves heading this way to give us the much needed rain and cool down. The waves are supposed to merge into one, and if they do arrive it will mean several days of rain. That's exactly what we need. Our cisterns depend on rain, or we have to buy water. There's nothing better than rain water. I can hardly wait. May God bless us all. Isabel A very hot dry day! End of day photo: Sizzling ! |
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| - Sept. 8 - Tropical Storm MINDY is Born ! |
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The storm is not expected to become a hurricane because of wind shear but will drop a "ton" of rain as it moves across the panhandle of Florida. As for us, there are two waves crossing the Atlantic which will merge and dump some much needed rain on the islands. I hope so! I love beautiful days, but everything is so dry! I could not find out exactly when the rain is coming, but it could very well be for the weekend. May God bless us all. Isabel We’re having the BLUES ! I Look forward to rain. No end of day photo available but I’d like to share this Pride of Barbados flowers spray. |
| - Sept. 7 - Quiet on the Home Front |
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We're having one beautiful day after another, but it's very hot. We don't see any substantial rain in the near future. The next wave from Africa might bring something, hopefully nothing major. May God bless us all, Isabel End of day photo : |
| - Sept. 6 - Monster Storm LARRY ! |
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Very early this morning we got a very strong gust of wind. I thought of LARRY immediately as it was in our vicinity. After that the rest of the day was quietasant with a very pleasant breeze, I heard of more waves coming off the coast of Africa.This month will continue to be very active. Remain prepared and ready for action if we get threatened. May God bless us all. Isabel End of day photo: |
| - Sept. 5 - Breathe Easy, Hurricane LARRY is Far Away |
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This morning it almost seemed as if Hurricane LARRY was passing by, but it cleared, the wind died down and the rest of the day it was a mixed bag of sun and clouds. The sun was intense today. It is so dry again that I'm hoping for rain soon. I don't recall such a dry year as we have had so far. A weatherman in the Dominican Republic mentioned a wave coming off the African coast which has the possibility of some development during the next week, otherwise it has quieted down for a while. It is expected to become more active again. Enjoy Labor Day tomorrow. Be safe and alert. May God bless us all. Isabel Another beautiful day in paradise End of day photo: |
| - Sept. 4 - It's Looking Good for Our Neighborhood |
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Powerful Hurricane LARRY is passing by too far to feel any impacts from high waves, but that may still be coming. 92L behind it has fizzled and the next storm coming off the coast of Africa is not showing any signs of trouble at least for a whole week. That could be a name storm in the future. We shall know more later on, in the meanwhile, we will have a worry-less week. Stay alert and prepared for any sneak attack. Enjoy the Labor Day Weekend. May God bless us all. Isabel Double Bougaibvillea for you: End of day photo: |
| - Sept. 3 - So Far, So Good ! |
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Today's information on major Hurricane LARRY shows that it is moving by at a safe distance from us, except that the region can expect 10 ft. waves, and that on a long weekend when many head to the beaches, It's going to be quite dangerous to go into the sea. We are going to get alerts that should be heeded. I remember when Hurricane OTTO passed by the sea was incredibly rough yet a father and his two children did not hesitate to go in, the boy was taken far out and the girl was rescued by her father before she also disappeared. The following day the boy's body was found on a beach. So, thank God that we may be spared the storm's impact, but don't put your lives at risk by going into the sea. Have fun and be safe this Labor Day Weekend, May God bless us all. Isabel A lizard friend.  MEnd of day photo:  |
| - Sept. 2 - Keep An Eye on Hurricane LARRY |
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We should be in suspense for the next four days. That’s when LARRY is suppose to make the west-northwest turn away from us. If it doesn’t we will be in danger of getting impacted by a powerful hurricane. So, let’s pray and hope for the best. May God bless us all. Isabel Another beautiful hurricane season day! End of day photo: |
| - Sept. 1 - Watch Out for Soon to be Hurricane LARRY ! |
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T.S. LARRY is intensifying very rapidly. It is also changing in its forward movement, It started out moving west-northwest, now west, then, west-northwest. The problem here is that it can go farther west to us before it turns west-northwest. By the time it reaches our area it will be a very powerful hurricane. We are urged to watch this system carefully and make sure all preparations are in place. Just got word from my son that a "State of Emergency has been declared for New York City. Flooding all over. The garage in his building was flooding".This is all due to IDA which has caused destruction from Louisiana all the way up the coast with torrential rain and tornadoes. Powerful hurricanes do not die slow deaths. Be safe, be prepared. May God bless us all. Isabel Today we were at Hotel on the Cay Beach celebrating our 58th Wedding Anniversary! End of day photos: |
| - Aug. 31 - Another Major Soon To Be |
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I trust my m favorite weatherman, Dave, when he wrote that 90L is destined to become Fish storm. It will scare the heck out of everyone especially if it becomes a major hurricane but according to him it will not touch any land. Nevertheless, keep an eye on it. IDA is enough for the season, I would think, but no, September is forecast to be extremely active. Be ready! May God bless us all. Isabel Like an ice-skating rink. End of day photos: |
| - Aug. 30 -The Next Hurricane ! |
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EA TW came off the coast of Africa with determination. In two days It shall become a tropical storm. The good news is that most of the computer models have it going off to the north, while just a few have it coming this way. By the looks of it a powerful hurricane will be forming. So, we shall be in suspense for a few days. If it's going north it should start turning soon. Let's pray it does. The folks in Louisiana are reeling from powerful hurricane IDA. They are in the dark now as we were, but someday soon they will be back to normal. If the next hurricane does not go out to sea it will head for the mainland again. Preparedness is the key word so that we can rise above the storms and make it safely through the aftermath. May God bless us all. Isabel The sea had a strange pattern today. End of day photo: |
| - Aug. 29 - Catastrophic Hurricane IDA |
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As we watched raw footage and reports from Louisiana we have cause to worry about the possibility of going through the same. The hurricanes are stronger now. A Category 1 or a 2 are forces we can more or less handle, but anything from 3 up are major forces. There is a tropical wave coming off the coast of Africa on Monday night with a cone headed in this direction. NOAA has it moving west - northwest at 10 to 15 mph. It is going to develop fast, 80% in a short time. We must keep an eye on this one and pray that it turns out to open sea. If not someone will probably be dealing with another major storm. May God bless us all. Isabel A sunny Sunday End of day photo: |
| - Aug. 28 - New Tropical Wave off Africa has a 50% Chance |
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Let’s hope that TW is not one of the “problematic “ ones that Dave mentioned. It already has a 50 % chance of developing. Let’s pray for the folks in Louisiana. After KATRINA I would think they will not hesitate to evacuate. May God bless them and us all. Isabel A promising rain, but nothing. Our lawn is looking very dry again. |
| - Aug. 27 - Tropical Storm IDA Heading for Louisiana |
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Our thoughts and prayers are with the folks in Louisiana. We know how it feels to have a hurricane bearing down on us. Now a TS but soon going to intensify rapidly once it gets into the super warm water of the Gulf and as the NHC said it can reach Category 4 status before making landfall with up to 20 inches of rain in some parts. I cringe at the thought of us getting something like that! According to weatherman Dave of Stormcarib the next two waves from Africa could be “problematic” for us. I know exactly what he means. We just have to think back four years to IRMA and MARIA. Let’s hope and pray there will not be a repeat performance! May God bless us all. Isabel Saharan dust is back..? That kind of a day today. End of day photo: See something..? |
| - Aug. 26 - Tropical Storm IDA formed Today |
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I just lost my update. So, all I can say is to prepare well as we are going to have a lot to deal with very soon. May God bless us all. Isabel Another very busy day at the pier . A branch of the thornless bougainvillea End of day photo:
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| - Aug.25 - Lots of Activity in the Atlantic! |
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Fear not, but this is the beginning of a barrage of potential storms coming from Africa, because of the MJO which is going to settle here for a bit making the Atlantic more active than the Pacific. Consider that 21 name storms were predicted for the season and so far only eight have formed. Are the predictors going to downgrade the number, or on the contrary are they going to upgrade. That's what happened last year. We definitely seem to have a barrage or blast of storms yet to come judging from all the talk about it. At the moment we are not a direct target, but as I said before the letter K could change that with a category 3 hurricane. Are we ready? Let's hope and pray that it passes us by. May God bless us all. Isabel A true hurricane season day: hot, hot, hot!  A very hot but pretty day today.  End of day photo:  |
| - Aug. 24 - "A Huge uptick" in Storms |
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This uptick was predicted. At the moment there are three systems that are being monitored, 2 in the Atlantic and 1 in the Caribbean, with another 2 that are soon coming off the Coast of Africa. Someone predicted that the K storm will pass through us or scrape by very close as a category 3 hurricane. I hope we’re all ready if that really happens. May God bless us all. Isabel A nice weather mix today. End of day |
| - Aug. 23 - The TW Train Has three Potential Storms |
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The National Hurricane Center is already looking at the next three names on the list as potential storms currently present in the Atlantic and the Caribbean. We have been getting some rough weather from the disturbance to our south. That one can become a Tropical Depression soon. According to the radar it looks as if it is kicking up some rain this way, but all we got are a few drops here and there. The day has been mostly cloudy, not a good day for charging by solar energy, but the breeze was quite refreshing on our hill. Let's stay tuned to the weather reports so that we know what's going on out there, Sometimes storms form right in our backyard. May God bless us all. Isabel Early this morning. The Crepe Myrtle is back End of day photo: |
| - Aug. 22 - Experts are Looking for the Next One.... |
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It's good if we can catch our breath before the next storm. Well, that is exactly what we are promised, a quiet spell for at least the next five days even though there are some who insist that something should be forming soon. Otherwise, it's going to get extremely active. I think it's best to enjoy life one day at a time and be ready for whatever comes. We worry about hurricanes, but how about tsunamis.? Those can happen too. Are the warning sirens functioning? In other words we have to be ready with emergency supplies and even an "escape" emergency backpack with all our necessities ready and standing at the exit. Let's hope and pray that all will be well and we can handle anything that comes along. Right now it's just rough seas, clouds, dust, and very breezy conditions.. May God bless us all. Isabel Rough! End of day photo: |
| - Aug. 21 - The Saharan Dust Prevailed Today! |
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Hazy conditions throughout the day with some sunshine in between was still a good beach day on The Cay. At the same time keeping a watch on Hurricane HENRI especially for my granddaughter in Boston. Rain and wind impacts are going to be huge in some areas from New York City to Vermont. May God bless them and us all. Isabel High noon Mat the Cay |
| - Aug. 20 - All Eyes Are on HENRI ! |
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While the Northeast is preparing to be bombarded by soon to be hurricane HENRI we are having a quiet spell at the moment, but perhaps not for long according to CSU. We shall be bombarded in the near future with multiple cyclones. I guess seeing is believing. However, it was in the forecast for a long time already that there will be a lot of activity beginning in August. Well, it’s coming. We’ve had enough time to get ready, so we should be stocked with non-perishable food, canisters of gas for the generator, full tank of gas, cash on hand, and a willing spirit to help those in need. May God bless us all. Isabel The hills look rainy,but it is dust. It returned today. End of day photo: Saharan dust sunset |
| - Aug. 19 - Tropical Wave #1 of Three |
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Our lovely weather changed today with the tropical wave that is passing by to our south showering us with some rain this morning while the rest of the day it was a mix of cloudiness, sun, and a breeze. The sea was choppy and no doubt rough for some swimmers like myself. Our favorite beach at the hotel is closed to non-guests due to the rise in Delta Covid cases. We are going to attempt an outing to our next favorite beach on Saturday if it’s not stormy. The weather has become somewhat unstable with the TW to the south; #2 is not too far behind. The good news about #3 is that it is heading more to the north. Be safe out there along the Northeast Coast and here. And try to avoid the virus! May God bless us all. Isabel A good day to share a mango End of day photo:  |
| - Aug. 18 - TS HENRI To the Northeast ! |
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Our weather was just lovely, but hot. I call it hurricane weather. There are three waves heading here. The third one is the most worrisome. It's big. Ruben Garcia, the meteorologist from Puerto warned us that from now on we can expect more and stronger storms as we approach the peak of the season. It's incredible that after all the "loop-d-loop" of HENRI, he would be heading west towards the Northeast. I hope my family in New York is aware of this. On the other hand, the next possible cyclone coming from Africa could be on the way to us. May God bless us all. Isabel Lovely day! End of day photo: |
| - Aug. 17 - Lots of Tropical Activity! |
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We are on our way to the peak and it's going to get busier. That wave coming off the coast of Africa looks huge. I hope the Saharan dust at least diminishes it some. It looks strong and invincible. Let's prepare well for the bolder storms that we will have to deal with from now on. Sorry that Haiti had to get hit with the weather in addition to the earthquake pain. Our weather has quieted down and we're looking forward to some more rain, not too strong as I re-seeded our lawn where it suffered from the drought. Just have to hope that all those patches will fill in with new grass soon. May God bless us all. Isabel End of day photo: |
| - Aug. 16 - What Next...? |
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The last two storms have blessed us with beneficial rain, one more than the other. So, for the moment we can say that the 2021 drought is over. It was severe. It seemed never ending, until TS Grace saturated the ground and brought out the green again, and filled our cisterns and tanks. TS Henri (#8) formed east of Bermuda, is doing a loop-d-loop around it without making landfall. Two new Tropical waves are being watched. One is halfway between Africa and the Caribbean ; the other is just coming off the coast of Africa. They are harmless at the moment, but "that can change later on". If they get serious, the NHC will keep us informed. May God bless us all. Isabel Courtesy of TS GRACE. They needed the rain to bloom. |
| - Aug. 15 - Copious RAIN from TS GRACE! Amazing! |
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We were a bit too anxious this morning when we saw what looked like a nice day ahead. We were hoping that FRED and GRACE together would end the relentless drought. Everyone in my neck of the woods in St. Croix was complaining. Everything was so dry. Then after 10 a.m. it looked very serious out there and before long it started to rain, reluctantly at first, but then it got really serious and it started to rain, I should say pour and it went on most of the day. We are very grateful for the rain. Our hearts go out to Haiti which is suffering as a result of the terrible earthquake which killed hundreds of people, and now have to suffer the effects of GRACE as it passes through that region. Everyone should pitch in to help by giving to one’s favorite Charity. Our Diocese is always generous in this area. We hope that Haiti can get all the relief it needs. May God bless them and us all. Isabel RAIN, RAIN, RAIN !  The Green from TS GRACE !  End of day photo:  |
| - Aug. 14 - Tropical Storm GRACE |
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It was great to see everyone out and about today s getting ready for the arrival of Tropical Storm Grace. The large parking lot at Home Depot was quite busy. Then we went to Cost U Less and it was the same. Inside I met a group of people who came down for a week; rented a house and felt secure having a generator. They asked how long does the power outage usually last. it depends, in our case we were out for two months with Hurricane Maria; other people were out much longer. There is potential for TS GRACE to become a hurricane but it is moving fast, hard to tell with this one what's going to happen even with such fantastic coverage everywhere. The gas stations were also crowded. We had lunch at home listening to more TS Grace coverage. We are getting local coverage which is conflicting with the others. In one case the storm will be passing farther to our south, then again, that it is passing between St. Croix and St.Thomas. That's quite a difference! According to the Closest Point of Approach the storm will pass 11 miles away at 7:30 a.m. May God bless us all. Isabel Today’s weather: A survivor of past hurricanes. End of day photo: |
| - Aug. 13 - Tropical Depression # 7 heading to the Caribbean ! |
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Hang in there! Overnight it shoud become a tropical storm with sustained winds of 45 - 55 mph. However, it is now moving at 24tr mph picking up some speed. Most of the computer models has it passing through the same route as PTC # 6, which is now a Depression threatening Florida. Tropical Depression #7 will be giving us more rain and wind than #6, so it's wise to take the necessary precautions. There is a possiblity of it becoming a hurricane bebore it reaches us, but because of the speed it's moving and some dry air around it, similar to PTC #6, there may not be enough time to become a hurricane before it arrives here. We have to prepare for the worse whilee hoping for the best. May God bless us all. Isabel This was one of the most beautiful days of the hurricane season so far. End of day photo: |
| - Aug, 11 - Bye! Tropical Storm FRED! |
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I must say that TS FRED was gentle as PTC #6 when it passed us to the south. The lawn is greener now with the rain we got out of that system yesterday and today. Now our attention has shifted to the east where another tropical wave 95 L is heading towards us. The NHC has given it a medium to high chance of developing. We had a practice run with Fred, this time it can be more demanding. So, let's stay in shape and do what we have to do. I understood that 95L should reach us by the weekend or early next week. More will be known once the system is fully developed. We have to monitor it as we do not know how strong it will be when arrives in our area. Prepare and be safe! Isabel Kissed by the sunrise More rain from PTC#6 End of day photos: |
| - Aug. 10 - Day of Arrival of PTC #6 |
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At 9:10 this morning the sun was playing peek-a-boo. After that it appeared very seldom giving way to the encroaching clouds of the potential cyclone 6. Soon after it started to rain. Around noon we got some heavy rain, but all in all, it was sparse compared to what I was hearing. Dry air impeded it from becoming a full fedged Tropical Storm or hurricane. Farther on there's no dust to interfere and the Gulf water is very warm. It's headed to Florida. I hope everyone there is watching this carefully. Now we have to keep an eye on 95 L which is threatening to follow the same route to the Caribbean. May God bless us all. Isabel Here it comes ! PTC #6 RAIN End of day photo: |
| - Aug. 9 - The NHC has designated 94L as Potential Cyclone #6 |
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As a matter of fact, I just saw a headline: Tropical Storm FRED is About to Be Born! It was looking that way earlier already.The Department of Health canceled all pop-up Covid tests on Tuesday because of "inclement weather". We are expecting the outer bands of the storm to arrive at 6:00 a.m. The storm itself could be here by 2 pm if not sooner. Not sure if we will be impacted or if it will pass close to our south. We are in the middle of the "cone of uncertainty". I spoke to a friend today who had no clue whatsoever about the approach of this system, so I fear that like her, there are many others. Stay safe, local friends and Caribbean neighbors! May God bless us all! Isabel A peaceful day before the storm The freighter has to leave tonight. End of day photo: |
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We finally had a lovely and much needed rainy day today. Nothing extraordinary to speak of minus a few beautiful rainbows. I, as always advise to keep a little bit of cash on hand and some gas in the tank, be careful some minor overflow on main roadways, slippery on the gravel and dirt but otherwise fine. Turn your lights on, it helps everyone! Sent from my iPhone |
| - Aug. 8 - As the Storms Approach…. |
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Just let’s hope we are ready. I heard Weather Gurl Danii say that if you have any big trees near your house you should cut them down. Too late for that now. Invests 93 L and 94L are heading to the Caribbean. We already had some showers today connected to the first system. Forerunners of the actual “wanna be” storm. It is no longer just a tropical wave, it’s an Invest, which means that the NHC is seriously concerned about these systems developing into cyclones; they monitor them closely for any or all changes. We have to pay attention. May God bless us all. Isabel Our showers today: |
| - Aug. 7 - The NHC is Watching Three Tropical Systems |
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Three Tropical systems are coming our way! Two could be bringing us rain in the rain-starved places, like ours. The first one is forecast to arrive on Tuesday, but showers in advance of it could already reach us from tonight. There is even the possibility of a gradual development. The third one could develop. The next couple of days will tell. However, we were cautioned to monitor each one as they tend to surprise suddenly with explosive action. Or again, they can fizzle if there’s enough interaction with dry air and wind shear. Most of that has abated or will soon and the tropical waves will get the all clear. That’s when the major storms develop well before reaching the island chain. We must be hurricane ready by this time. We are climbing Mt. Everest. By the time we get to the peak it will be September 10th. May God bless us all. Isabel At Shoys Beach today End of day photos: |
| - Aug. 6 - An Extremely Active Season |
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The islands are like targets for the many tropical waves shooting out of Africa. In a few days a fairly vigorous one will be approaching us. It is being monitored for possible development. The one behind it is much bigger and had a 60% chance of developing; in between those another has become worthy of recognition. The big bad one is forecast to climb up to our north far from us. Good for us, but what about the remaining 13 or 14? If we are prepared, we should not fear. May God bless us all. Isabel This lovely weather should continue for another few days until the first of many waves approach our vicinity. |
| - Aug. 5 - The Wave Train is on its Way |
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Are we ready! Where are these wave trains going to unload (impact)? This is a reminder: The Caribbean islands will probably be impacted by storms 3 - 5 times this year. ELSA can count for one of those. We can expect a lot of activity for the rest of the season with some breaks in between. The number of storms for this season was upgraded to 21. Not bad considering that last year there were 30. The only difference was that they all went to the South or to the north. This year's tracks should be of concern to us all. Ready or not, here they come, beginning with a large tropical wave which will enter the Caribbean this coming Sunday into early next week. I'm hoping my hill gets a good, soaking rain for the cisterns, tanks, and plants. May God bless us all. Isabel Another lovely day Hidden Orchids End of day photos: |
| - Aug. 4 - The Calm before the Storms |
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Our days have really been lovely considering the season we're in. However, that's rapidly coming to an end. There are three disturbances that are being monitored by the NHC. The first one should be passing through the northern Lesser Antilles probably as a strong tropical wave by the latter part of this weekend into early next week. I hope we also get some rain. We are farther south. The second one east of the Cape Verde Islands will be moving north-northwest into cooler waters. The third one which is not even off the coast of Africa is huge and already has a 40% chance of becoming the next named storm. Behind that one is another one, and so on. Unfortunately, they're all coming in this direction. That does not mean that we are going to be impacted, but we have to monitor these systems for the latest information each day. Our local newspapers are usually good at informing us if a real threat approaches. We have to make sure that we are prepared for whatever comes. May God bless us all. Isabel Enjoy the “Calm…” The Plumbago is trying to look good during our dry spell. End of day photo: |
| - Aug. 3 - The National Hurricane Center is Watching 91 L |
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We have the first threat in the far east Atlantic now designated as 91 L. The computer models are bringing it towards us. It would be great if it only remains an open tropical wave as I heard today. Apparently it's packing a lot of rain. At the moment it looks unlikely that it will become a cyclone before it gets to the islands, but as we know that can change. it's still too far away to know for sure. The second tropical wave that is still in Africa is already given a 20% chance of developing by the NHC. A weather enthusiast has two name storms forming, one passing close to the north of us, the other passing close to the south of us. We shall know more with each day. Just be ready. It's only just beginning. Be safe, not sorry. May God bless us all. Isabel An early morning post card for you. A Cloud family End of day photo: l. |
| - Aug. 2 - The Atlantic is Waking Up! |
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Suddenly today the NHC spotlighted a strong tropical wave coming off the coast of Africa south of the Cape Verde Islands. It starts out with a 10% chance. They will monitor it and keep us informed, as well as all the weather experts out there. Computer models take it to two possible routes in the long run. One is through the Caribbean, and the other is close to our north. Of course that can change. I'm hoping that it gets here as RAIN soon. We've never had such a long dry spell. There was a dead deer on our property and I wouldn't be surprised if it died of thirst. According to Waste Management they have been picking up a lot of dead deer. So let the rain come! May God bless us all. Isabel A peek-a-boo lizard |
| - August 1 - It's Getting Closer |
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We always think of September 10th as the peak of the hurricane season and that is a fact, however, when does the climb to the peak begin? It begins in August, unofficially on the 15th. At the moment "weather eyes" are beginning to watch a wave that is about to splash into the Atlantic. Someone went so far as to say that it can become a cyclone in a week, and because of the Bermuda High which is in place above us, the cyclones are going to travel through our neck of the woods. This is the time to turn our attention east towards Africa because when they start spinning without the interference of Saharan dust, it will be one after another. May God bless us all. Isabel A picture perfect day Lovely hurricane season weather End of day photo: |
| - July 31 - Get Set ! Ready ! Go ! |
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Today marks day 61 of the Hurricane Season. In the early stages five name storms formed, surprising everyone. Then a period of dust and absolute quiet ensued. We shall be getting the third and last update from Colorado soon as to the number of name storms we can expect. Will they be upgraded or downgraded? Whatever they say is usually accurate. The environment in the main development region (MDR) between Africa and the Caribbean is getting set for a very active rest of season until the end of November which is when the official season ends. We still have time to finalize our preparations. May God bless us all. Isabel Saharan dust usually lasts until now. The golden sunset is courtesy of the dust. End of day photo: |
| - July 30 - “It’s only a matter of time” |
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There’s a very large tropical wave coming off the coast of Africa with a very mean look. The advice was to get whatever we need while we can because impacts can be one after the other once they start. The entire Atlantic Basin is getting ripe and ready to deliver the yearly dose of tropical systems. I’m anxious to hear the next update from Colorado. Will it stand at 20 name storms? If so, We have 15 to go between now and November 30, or beyond. Prepare now. May God bless us all. Isabel This was the view to the north at mid-afternoon today. How can such a delicate beauty survive the long drought we’ve been having? End of day photo: |
| - July 29 - The Atlantic Sleeps |
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It’s not going to sleep for much longer. We are preparing for a hyperactive season and this year there will be a lot more action in the Caribbean, according to forecasters. Prepare and be safe, not sorry. May God bless us all. Isabel A good part of the day has been like this. Seems like a mix of clouds / dust. These clouds sometimes precede a change of weather. We shall see. End of day photo: |
| - July 28 - “It Only Takes One to Devastate a Community” |
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An above average hurricane season was predicted for this year; up to 20 name storms are lined up for this year. That’s ten less than last year. However, no matter how few or how many storms are predicted it only takes one impact to paralyze a community. We experienced a taste of powerful Hurricane MARIA in 2017. Even though Frederiksted was only clipped, or swiped at, not making a direct impact on all of St. Croix, the storm was so very strong that the 175 mph winds were felt throughout. Electrical power was knocked out for months. Let us not think for moment that we can get away without a storm as we did last year. We have to take this seriously and prepare for the worst. May God bless us all Isabel A lovely hurricane season day End of day photo: |
| - July 27 - Are We Ready? |
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The sky was so blue today. It was so beautiful. Picture perfect. You shall see at the end what I mean. The bad part is that we’re entering OUR hurricane season in August. There is nothing that can stop the tropical waves from Africa, then I heard that the warm water is 700 ft down, hurricanes only need 200. Wind shear will also be low. In other words the ingredients are all set and ready for action, but are WE ready? May God bless us all. Isabel The blues were back today! |
| - July 26 - “Active August Looming” |
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The quoted words above are from a very excited weatherman David Schlotthauer. The Saharan dust should be out of here in 5 to 7 days and there are tropical waves anxious to come this way. He also urged everyone to use the time now to prepare for what’s coming very soon. So, let’s do that. May God bless us all. Isabel On the way to the Secret Garden.. A person in the cloud..? End of day photo: |
| - July 25 - |
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The Saharan dust returned today, then the clouds rolled in, then the rumbling of thunder, and some drops of rain for us, but off to our north it seemed that they were getting a lot of rain. As the evening wore on, the light show began with continuous lightning. I mentioned before, that as the dust lifts more moisture will come through, which is good, but so will the storms. I cannot stress enough how important it is to make timely preparations. We can be caught by surprise as happened with Hurricane MARIA. People still freak out over that storm. Let’s be ready for whatever comes. May God bless us all. Isabel The face of the afternoon Clouds rolling in… End of day photo : No sunset. |
| - July 24 - Rain ! |
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I think this has been the best day for rain for us. From here onwards we should be having more of this each day. The lawn is very happy and so are we. The dogs are not as happy. They don’t like to get rained on, the same goes for a bath. The tiny tree frogs are very happy, too. They are now having the first concert in a very long time. Now it really sounds like the tropics. Keep in mind that ahead of us come the potential storms within the tropical waves from Africa. It’s very important that we prepare. May God bless us all! Isabel Blessing of the land.. Great rainy view End of day photo: End of day photo: |
| - July 23 - Name Storm # 6 ? |
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The latest I heard was that along the southeast coast there's something brewing with the semblance of a storm looking for a name. It can happen tomorrow, they say. The folks in the area should pay close attention. As for us, we had a great downpour around midnight last night. We're noticing that more showers are coming through. That's a sign that the dust is lifting. There should be more activity as of next week according to some experts. In our weather world the worst is still to come. Be ready! May God bless us all. Isabel Still somewhat hazy today. End of day photo: |
| - July 22 - The Quiet Before the Storms |
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The weather here is never boring. It’s a mixed bag : a constant movement of clouds from east to west, sometimes dropping some moisture, the sun always manages to peek out here and there, or otherwise shines brightly if the Saharan dust allows it. This pattern in not expected to change much until the end of this month. As the Saharan dust thins out more moisture will be coming through. That’s when we have to watch out. The tropical waves rolling off the coast of Africa will find a comfortable environment in which to develop into storms of all sizes. How are our shutters.? Hope they’re in order, they’re going to be needed. The ground is dry and thirsting for rain, it’s coming. Let’s enjoy this quiet time while we have it and be wise! Prepare while we can. May God bless us all. Isabel Large wall picture of St. Croix at St. Croix Dental office where I was this morning. Lots going on at the pier today. End of day photo: |
| - July 20-21 Hurricane Preparedness |
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“There’s nothing coming! I can prepare everything when it’s time”. The problem with that is that stores run out of things.. “Are you sure you are going to find the things you need ?” There is such a self confidence that people are convinced they will manage just fine. That being the case, there should not be any problems. I remember how stressed out we were when two powerful hurricanes IRMA and MARIA were heading towards us. The first one swiped us and moved on to the northern leeward islands. It was a rush to prepare for that one. It is definitely not the time to start preparing. MARIA caught us by surprise so closely behind IRMA. A 175 mph storm is a lot to deal with, especially when it left most people without electricity for months. It’s not good to wait until the last minute. Prepare now! May God bless us all. Isabel From behind the villeas Peeking at the Steeple End of day photo: |
| - July 19 - Dust, Dust, and more Dust ! |
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It was a dry, hot, dusty day. Very hazy! No substantial rain in the near future. It could be that "8 -14 days" from now there will be some activity. The dust is drying up the tropical waves now, but that is going to change; then we will have rain on a more regular basis. Hopefully not apocalyptic! It's horrible what's happening in Europe with such severe flash flooding! So many people died, so many missing! Let’s hope and pray that we do not have anything so devastating! May God bless us all. Isabel Today mostly gray Secret Garden Arch End of day photo: |
| - July 18 - The Quiet Atlantic |
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Sh-h-h-h ! Let it remain quiet ! We're having some lovely days with a mix of sun, clouds, scattered showers, refreshing evening breezes and music in the neighborhood. Life is good for most. How long is this going to last ? Unfortunately, August looms and with it increased activity in the Atlantic. We still have 14-15 storms waiting in the wings. If that holds true it would be good if they can spread out over the next four months instead of clustering in September, the peak of the hurricane season. Be safe! Prepare! May God bless us all. Isabel Today’s postcard. We take a 1-minute ferry to the Hotel on the Cay and the beach. Flowers for you End of day photos: originals |
| - July 17 - Are We Ready? |
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Ready or not, they are coming! There's no hurricane season without hurricanes. Last year they spared us, but this year they have apparently chosen the Caribbean route to transit from the coast of Africa to the Gulf states, or up the East Coast. Caribbean islands can be impacted at least 4 additional times since ELSA. It would be good, wise, to start thinking about hurricane preparedness. The preparation is good for all kinds of calamities, and even simple emergencies. I remember in an earthquake movie, people were instructed to keep a backpack with important essentials next to the door so that they could grab it quickly and get out. Granted, hurricanes give us time to prepare, and if houses are built to withstand them everyone should be safe. It is just the aftermath that we have to deal with. Be safe! May God bless us all. Isabel The sun resting on a cloud. Dainty ladies looking wild. End of day photo: |
| - July 16 - The Tropical Atlantic is Very Quiet ! |
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Good ! BUT will it remain quiet? Only until the end of July, I heard. Then the activity is forecast to begin in earnest. That's why we should prepare while we have the time. It's good to have a checklist. We don't want another Category 8 type hurricane like MARIA, It was so strong that category 5 does not do it justice. Then power was knocked out for months. Our kitchen stove is electric, so we cooked on a gas stove outside on the deck where we cooked and dined every night. We had very pleasant evenings on the covered deck. We should always try to make the best of every situation. May God bless us all ! Isabel From this…. To this….. End of day photo: |
| - July 15 - A Beautiful Clear Day! |
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I have mixed feelings about the Saharan dust. It’s bad and it’s good! Bad because it looks so miserable, everything gray. On the other hand, it is good, because it keeps tropical waves from developing. When we have a clear day like today, it is so beautiful, but then the worry that the lack of dust in the air can cause problems if one or more of the waves coming off the coast of Africa should become a monster storm! We can expect trouble as of the end of July according to the weather experts. Let’s keep that in mind and prepare from now. May God bless us all. Isabel A beautiful clear sky. “Jump Up And Kiss Me Flowers” bloom after a good rain as we had recently. End of day photo: |
| - July 14 - Where’s the Dust! |
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Scary! No dust opens the way for tropical development. The waves are coming off the coast of Africa continuously. I’m hearing that the dust will stick around for another two weeks, but we didn’t have the haze today, mostly a mixed bag of sun, clouds, and scattered showers. Late this afternoon I got a rain alert announcing rain on and off over the next few hours. So far nothing. Each day brings us closer to the active part of the season. Prepare and be safe! May God bless us all. Isabel One of our rain showers today. In the foreground is a bunch of Christmas palm seeds. End of day photos: |
| - July13 - A Rainy Afternoon/ Evening |
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Last night I lost my update! It was all set to go and wherever it went I could not find it until sometime today. So, I hope this ones goes out. The dust lifted and it was clearer than the last couple of days. Since this afternoon a tropical wave has been passing through showering us with beneficial rain. I commented last night that there are many waves coming off the coast of Africa but didn’t stand much of a chance, according to a weatherman, because of the Saharan dust in the way. Well, I’m glad that we can have days like today. I urged everyone in hurricane zones to use this quiet time to prepare for what’s to come. Keep in mind that Hurricane MARIA was approaching St. Croix with 175 mph winds, that means that there were higher gusts. Are those the kind of hurricanes we are going to have this year? If so, are we ready for the challenge? May God bless us all. Isabel A delightful rain shower.. Another day passing…. End of day photo: Angels? |
| - July 11 - BIG RAIN Last Night !! |
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Shortly after I went to bed last night , after midnight, there was a flash. Nothing else happened until I started dozing off. Then the Rain came and did it ever RAIN, as it had not done in a long time. This was the kind of saturating rain that we needed. It proved that it could still get through the dust, so there's hope for more. More flashes and rumbling thunder in the distance and it was gone. That was a tropical wave that made it through. As long as we don't have to go high and dry until August, this is fine. Hope everyone had a wonderful Sunday. Remember in your busy schedules to prepare your needs for the very active part of the season coming up. May God bless us all. Isabel Saharan dust |
| - July 10 - Dusty Day |
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Hazy conditions will persist as long as this plume of Saharan dust hangs over the area. So, we can enjoy the warm sea, as long as we don't expect to step into blue waters. According to the weather experts it should be quiet at least until the end of the month, so if you want to get away to the American Paradise, here is your chance. However, check first before you book a flight. The MJO (Madden Julian Oscillation) is being watched. It is right now in India and is crossing the globe. According to a recent report, when it reaches this area it will bring RAIN and potential cyclones, but that is not just yet, perhaps that's why it should be quiet for the next few weeks. Let's be ready! We have enough time. The pre-ELSA rain caught New Yorkers by surprise, flooding subways and byways. People were wading waist deep in some places. We had a pre-LENNY event the night before the hurricane arrived with strobe lightning, and a four hour power outage due to a lightning bolt strike on the Power Plant. We live on a hill, but most most likely there was flooding somewhere. There was not much time to check for such information when you have a Category 4 hurricane barreling towards you in the next several hours. As I said, be ready, prepare for the worst while hoping for the best. May God bless us all. Isabel Saharan dust!  Down to the "Secret Garden"  End of day photo:  |
| - July 9 - More Storms This Season! |
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According to the CSU update we can expect an increase in storms. Unfortunately, the number of storms forecast to come through the Caribbean has also increased. I just mentioned in my post yesterday that the season would probably be upgraded. They will be coming out with another update at the beginning of August. That will be the last one. I hope it is not worse. Well, as I said before, this is the time to accelerate our preparations if you haven't done so already. We are being given quiet time at least for the next three weeks. We got our generator checked out and ready to go if we needed it. Today we finally got some good rain. It washed our car clean of all the Saharan dust; looks like new. Our garage has become a storage room for out-going items; the problem is that they don't move out fast enough. I believe that we're not the only ones with that problem. Let's take it a day at a time and do whatever we can to protect life and limb ! May God bless us all. Isabel Rain clouds, good downpours, rain photos failed.  As the Earth turns the sun remains unmovable...  End of day photo:  |
| - Day 38 - Calm For The Next Few Weeks? |
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My favorite weatherman in Puerto Rico reported that according to the reliable models and the atmospheric conditions for the next few weeks until the end of July we will have a quiet pause. Well, what about the monster wave that was coming off the coast of Africa, and the others in line to do the same? It seems they will not have a chance to develop because of the Saharan dust. I think that big tropical wave might still reach us as just rain, which is what we need. We have to hope for the best. If we do have some weeks of calm it gives us a chance to finalize preparations for the storms ahead. Yes, the "very active hurricane season" is still in place. That has not changed as yet and with the next update it will not surprise me if they upgrade it to more storms. Last year there were 30 storms! We've been having strong winds and lots of dust the past couple of days, but no rain. As for the calm predicted for the next few weeks, I shall not hold my breath. I suggest we take each day as it comes and enjoy it. May God bless us all. Isabel Blustery..  and busy....  End of day photo:  |
| - July 7 - ELSA Has it's Eyes on the Northeast |
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As ELSA makes its way, thoughts are already on the next storm. When? Where? Thanks to the huge plume of dust in the tropical Atlantic we should not be having any storms any time soon. In his update Dave mentioned "a 4th (wave) launching off the African coast with impressive size". That might be something to watch if the dust does not stifle it. Maybe this could be our rainmaker. I get rain alerts often, but not for us. I heard that Frederiksted is getting a lot of rain, on the other hand, we are high and dry. Our dog, (photo in yesterday's update) is starting to dig holes in the dried up lawn. As you can see by the size of his paws and nails, he can do some hefty digging! We're going to have a lot of patching up to do. Be Prepared and safe wherever you are, for whatever may come. May God bless us all. Isabel Early morning splendor  The Tale of two clouds  End of day photo:  |
| - July 6 - ELSA ! ELSA ! Aren't You Tired? |
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It's been a long trek from Africa and still going! And now, hurricane status again! I have been teasing my friend Elsa. I bet she's getting it from others. I guess some people blame me for Hurricane ISABEL some years ago. It was pretty bad. My pastor got stuck somewhere along the East Coast because of it. He mentioned it. And so it goes if the storm happens to have your name. I am still concerned about the tropical waves to the east of us. I wrote to my weatherman friend to see if he can shed some light on them. He plans to do that tonight, so I think by tomorrow we should know something. Meanwhile, let's keep the Floridians, and all those who have been battered by ELSA in our thoughts and prayers. My heart goes out to those who have lost loved ones. May God bless us all. Isabel At Mermaid Beach today  "I get to use the master's easy chair at siesta time."  End of day photo:  |
| - July 5 - Suspense ! Here and There! |
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The Floridians are watching and waiting to see what ELSA is going to do, and I am watching and waiting to see what the intention is of those three tropical waves coming from Africa. They are mentioned for a split second and then the focus is once again on Elsa. Those could very well be the next three name storms on the list. I can understand the concern of the Floridians, especially when they heard that half a million people had to be evacuated in Cuba to avoid a life-threatening situation. They also have caves that were excavated in the mountains, in the past, to make places of refuge for people who live up there. That's really cool! I just wonder where did they put the half million who were evacuated? Inches of rain per hour have fallen wherever ELSA came close to or passed over. We are still hoping for some good rain, that is why I need more info about those three waves. We are having the most beautiful hurricane season weather and are grateful that we are not in the path of a storm at the moment. We know the feeling. May God bless us all. Isabel Beautiful Hurricane Season Weather  A thing of beauty  End of day photo:  |
| - July 4: Tropical Storm ELSA slowed down to 14 mph!! |
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Hello, Everyone! I hope those of you celebrating are having a wonderful Independence Day! Those of you in Florida are keeping an eye on the storm, I'm sure. It has slowed down after the rush across the Caribbean. That's not a good sign. If it should encounter a good space of warm water it's going to intensify. I hope it just disintegrates altogether. We've having beautiful weather. Our visitors must be enjoying it; there's so much more that can be done when the weather cooperates. There are tropical waves coming from Africa, hopefully bringing us the rain we need. I resumed listening to the rain sounds to fall asleep, sometimes it works. There's nothing like real rain on the roof. Haven't heard that in a while. Looking forward to it, so does our garden. Enjoy the fireworks! May God bless America, and us all, wherever we are in the world. Isabel Red, White, and Blue !  The turtles enjoying some mangos  End of day photo:  |
| - July 3 - Hot and Dry ! |
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Sizzling ! Yet the high was only 88. Yesterday we had ELSA's winds which kept us cool, but not today. She is on her way to Florida, last I heard. Our hearts go out to the St. Lucians who suffered such destruction as ELSA passed through. I saw videos on VIConsortium. A sad sight. I just hope no lives were lost. Don't know if other islands along the chain suffered damage. If so, I sympathize with you. I know well how it feels to go through a hurricane and see the devastation when it's over. Meanwhile, ELSA lost some energy due to wind shear, interaction with land, and it's speed which is still at 28 mph. Now it's a Tropical Storm, but still packing a lot of rain and wind. It can still regain hurricane strength so it's being monitored carefully by the NHC. So far nothing on the tropical waves that are stepping off the coast of Africa. May God bless us all. A Happy Fourth of July to Everyone celebrating this day!! Isabel Mid-day sun  Our solitary pineapple is thriving despite the drought.  End of day photo:  (Those green spots on the photo are annoying. I hope it's only dirt on the lens. My phone has fallen once too often!) |
| - July 2 - VERY WINDY ! |
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And wind is probably all we are going to get. As it passes us to the south, the center of the storm should be at our location according to the CPA, by 8:30 p.m. It is now 7:15. On the radar ELSA looks enormous. Perhaps some of the outer bands will reach us. We shall soon find out. It has been very windy all day, especially as it entered the Caribbean. Soon the other two tropical waves behind ELSA will be in the limelight, but for now Hurricane ELSA is the star. Well, it's now 11:00 p.m. and it remains the same, very windy and not a drop of rain. Let's keep all the people in the path pf the hurricane in our thought and prayers. I heard back from Jurgen in Barbados. Was glad to know that all is well there except for the power and the usual. Lt's hp[e that the next two are not going be to bad. May God bless us all. Isabel A very windy day courtesy of Hurricane ELSA   The steps to Secret Garden End of day photo:  |
| - July 1 - We Got DUST WITH 95 L |
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What a way to start off the month of July! The remnants of what was left of 95 L after it was ripped apart by wind shear came by with bits of rain now and then, very overcast with clouds but mostly dust. However, there was also a very refreshing breeze. When I compare our weather with other places where the heat is overbearing, it truly feels like paradise here, even if the blue of sky and sea were invisible. All you have to do is look at yesterday's postcard on my update,and there is the blue. Yes, it was disappointing not to get the rain, but I know that sooner or later it will come. We could get some from Tropical Storm Elsa as it will be dropping a lot of rain, about 5 inches on Puerto Rico. The latest report I heard is that it could move up a bit closer to us in which case we should feel the effects of the storm. It's moving at 29mph, quite a brisk pace, so by tomorrow, Friday 2, we should be feeling ELSA around us. Another significant tropical wave is stepping off the coast of Africa. It's also very low, so most likely it will follow the paths of the two forerunners. It looks like a busy July ahead. Be prepared. May God bless us all. Isabel This is the kind of day we had...  Compliments of 95 L  End of Day Photo: More dust than spurts of rain  |
| - June 30 - Potential Tropical Cyclone Five Advisory! |
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One small step more and 97 L will climb the scale to Tropical Depression status. The next step is Tropical Storm E ! The circulation just needs to close, that's when the eye forms, the rotation becomes stronger and soon it will become a hurricane. It is expected to intensify to a Category 3 hurricane as it goes through the Caribbean. it probably will be too far south from us to know the difference. On the other hand, these systems wobble at times and suddenly it's on top of us. It has happened. We have to keep an eye on it. We are still waiting for 95 L. It is a tropical wave with enough rain to drop 1 -3 inches along its path. Are we in its path? We need the rain, so I hope we are. Our lawn is crunchy dry. May everyone be safe along the path of the soon to be hurricane. May God bless us all. Isabel This morning's postcard:  Noon time  Mid afternoon  End of day photo:  |
| - June 29 - Two Tropical Waves heading to the CaribbeanI |
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I just hope we get some good rain out of at least 95 L or 97 L . Let them not get dramatic, like becoming a cyclone. Although, I must say that 97 L is showing signs of possibly becoming a Tropical Depression before it gets here. That one is projected to go straight across to our south, so the chances of rain for us could be zero. 95L was looking more promising for us, but it is struggling and has been downgraded to 30% chance of staying alive. We don't want a cyclone; rain will do just fine. Don't forget to track these systems especially if you are living here, or those of you who are living somewhere along the projected route. That way you have time to prepare in case the TW develops into a bad storm. May God Bless us all. Isabel Serenity  Waiting for the audience  End of day photo:  |
| - June 28 - Tropical Storm DANNY in S. Carolina, and Look to the East!. |
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It is looking more and more as if 95 L to our east will become a name storm. Let's hope it is not more than a Tropical Storm. That would be the E storm. The wave behind it is 97 L which is expected to move a bit more to the south. If June has been so active, what can we expect of July! This is about the earliest we've had to deal with storms. People are often shocked when they hear about the TWs from Africa. It's too early for that, they say, but that's why the hurricane season begins on June 1. Next year it will begin on May 15 as on the Pacific side. The important thing is Hurricane Preparedness. Are we prepared? If anyone out there, referring locally now, would like some tips. Check out VITEMA on the internet. They have lots of information on how to prepare. It is better to get ahead of the tropical systems and be ready for whatever comes our way. May God bless us all. Isabel It looks more like a bird now, I thought it was an angel.  A Splendid goodbye from a superstar  End of day photo:  |
| - June 27: A Tropical Event Approaching Thursday? Friday? |
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There is something coming, but what will it be! A hurricane..? A Tropical Storm..? A Tropical Depression...? Or, a good, hearty rainmaker in the form of a Tropical Wave. Well, the last I heard is that it could be just that, however, the weatherman cautioned that we have to monitor this system as some of the computer models have it going right through us and it could be stronger than a TW. What is good about that is that we should finally get the rain we have been waiting for. Our ground is still very dry, plants that should look robust with lots of leaves are still looking very sad with their see-through branches. Normally the branches are so full that one cannot see the other side. The Noni tree which Hurricane Maria planted when she blew down the Divi-Divi tree in the middle of the Tortoise Domain, is one of those suffering. The Noni fruit is at least six inches in size and when it ripens on the tree it falls and it becomes food for them. That hasn't happened for a while now. So, let it rain! Let us keep in mind, though, that heavy rain, with lightning can cause power outages. Unless it diminishes somewhat before it arrives here in a few days, it's going to be a strong rainmaker.Torrential rain can cause flooding, landslides, power outages, even fatalities if we are not careful. So, of the above, what would we choose if we could choose? I would choose the TW. May God bless us all. Isabel A very beautiful day today.  This looks like a shark going after something!  End of day photo:  |
| - June 26 - Not So Great News Today |
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Yesterday we were informed that Disturbance #1 designated as 95L, which came off the coast of Africa was showing signs of weakening. It went from a 40% chance to a 20% chance. Well, now I found out from my lovely weather lady with the southern drawl, that the call was made too early. The fact is, that the disturbance is regaining strength and may even be able to get through the bit of dust in its way and continue towards the Caribbean. She has it going straight west, while some computer models have it in our vicinity, perhaps our back door, in 5 days. It can be a Tropical Depression or worse. Whatever the case we have to prepare and monitor that system and a new one coming off the coast of Africa. My favorite weatherman in Puerto Rico said yesterday that nothing ever forms this early because of the Saharan dust. He could still be right that nothing will come of it; that would be great news, but we're living in strange times now when even the weather is "not behaving" as it should. Watch and pray! May God bless us all. Isabel Rain is coming!  A peek down into the Secret Garden.  End of day photo:  |
| - June 25 - Great News ! |
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The latest is that 95L, that huge tropical wave that had a 40% chance of developing and heading to our islands, has dropped to a 20% chance now, and most likely will remain an open wave. I hope it brings enough rain for all the islands, especially for those which have been suffering from the drought. As long as there's dust in the air we should be protected. 95 L could not develop because of the dust. Unfortunately, dear folks, this is not going to last. The dust will lift one day and hurricanes will develop. Hurricane HUGO started off as a hurricane early on it's route to the islands. It had a lot of time to grow into a monster and became the most catastrophic hurricane ever to impact St. Croix. The damage was huge because of the weak constructions in the years prior to HUGO. Since then houses have been built stronger and can withstand a Category 5 hurricane. Let's not let our guard down, but continue to prepare for a safe hurricane season. May God bless us all. Isabel 1.Last brush strokes of the day:  2. Show time!  3.End of day photo: . |
| - June 24 - Pushing the D Storm |
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Some weather people are so anxious to have a hurricane that I saw one big announcement about Hurricane D 2021. I don't dare spell out the D name for fear that it will become a reality. Right now it is being given a 20% chance in 2 days and a 40% chance in 5 days. They even showed a track as to where it will be going. According to that, it would scrape by as it passes us and that as a Category 1 hurricane, The woman at the pharmacy today was shocked that we are already being threatened. She said she was not ready for that. Well, ready or not, here they come! And apparently there are many tropical waves on the way to the Atlantic. As I heard even before the season started, the Caribbean is going to be impacted 3 - 5 times this season, that is unlike last year when there were 30 name storms and none of them touched us. So, let's pray and hope for the best, while preparing for the worse. May God bless us all. Isabel Our beautiful late afternoon sky  IA peek at Schooner Bay  End of day photo:  |
| - Day 23: Blue Skies Mean Trouble |
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Blue skies mean a lack of Saharan dust that dries up tropical waves with bad intentions. At the moment there are some fierce-looking tropical waves jumping off the coast. Can we ever breathe easily ? I remember once wanting rain, rain, rain and when it came it was torrential and I was worried, worried, worried that we would have a landslide. That's why when I turn on the Rains Sounds for sleeping, I don't have to worry, I can enjoy the rain until I fall asleep. Now, it's possible that the two tropical waves that are headed this way from Africa could be troublemakers. We were asked to monitor their progress through the Tropical Atlantic. May God bless us all. Isabel Instant postcard for you It's like a large bird carrying the sun. End of Day photo: |
| - June 22 - A Very Interesting Weather Day |
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Besides the disturbing weather reports about the large tropical waves coming off the coast of Africa, there's the potential of a big threat coming our way. We are not accustomed to such early activity, but that goes to show that the season is going to be very active as the experts predicted. Not only that, but this time the Caribbean islands can be impacted 3 -5 times during the season. The dust has also lifted somewhat and that helps in the development of storms. It would be too bad if the idyllic setting at the Buccaneer Hotel where we celebrated our daughter's birthday today should be disrupted by a storm. It was sunny and rainy at intervals as we had lunch at the Mermaid Beach Restaurant. We heard from a friend who works at the boutique that at the moment there are over two hundred guests at the hotel. Anyone else coming down to the island would do well in paying attention to those tropical waves. May God bless us all. Isabel Dramatic Sky over Mermaid Beach   End of day photo: Unstable weather  |
| - June 21 - Another Mixed Weather Bag Day! |
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I always wish the best weather for our visitors and to me the best weather is sunny skies and blue waters. That has not been the case for a while now. It is either the Saharan dust, clouds, or a mixture of both with some showers in between. I hope they don't mind it. One can still enjoy the sea even if the sky does not look too friendly. I always enjoyed a good downpour while in the sea, the drops look like diamonds splashing into the water. However, I understand that when people pay lots of money to travel here, pay hotel and car rental, it adds up, and all they're asking is to get good weather in return. It does not work that way, especially at this time of year, during the hurricane season, when the weather is unpredictable. There are several tropical waves coming this way. We're hoping for rain. We had a long drought this year. I always hope it rains at night and that the sun shines during the day. Sorry about the folks whot got killed during the passage of CLAUDETTE on the mainland. I guess no one expected it to be as vicious as it turned out. Every tropical system is worthy of respect and everyone should take the necessary precautions; heed watches and warnings, and stay indoors. May God bless us all. Isabel 1)The clearest, sunniest, part of the day.  2)The Flamboyant Trees are beginning to bloom. A later start than usual due to the drought,  3)End of day photo:  |
| - June 20 : Happy Father's Day '21 and beyond!! |
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Our dads on St. Croix must have had a really happy celebration! No rain, no storm, just a very warm, breezy day. Clouds came and went; though I got a rain alert that it would rain for a few hours on and off, it never happened. Perhaps it went west. I did not get any update on the potential storm for the beginning of July. Not surprising if the dust swallowed it. I was trying to get feedback on CLAUDETTE from friends in NC, instead I received the sad news from the wife that he was very sick after receiving the Covid vaccine in Feb, recovered, traveled to his daughter for an early Father's Day celebration, then went back home to die on June 4th. How sad! They enjoyed reading my updates with the photos and could hardly wait to see them each year! Early today I mentioned that I wanted to send them a report about the history of Father's Day which originated in the Methodist Church. They are Methodists. (Check today's GIVE HIM 15 on Youtube if you would like to hear it.) May he rest in peace and may God bless us all. Isabel At noon today..  Mango season is in...  End of day photo:  |
| - Day 19 - Really?? A Potential Storm for Us Early July ?? |
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Heads up, everyone in the Caribbean! There's a weather report about what to expect for the rest of June, There are waves coming off the coast of Africa and one of them is being watched that has the potential to develop, especially if it stays below the dust. In whatever form, it will arrive at the Antilles Islands by July 1. It could either be a Depression or the D name storm. Apparently, the wind shear will also be low and the wave is a strong-looking one. Just recently a "robust" one got swallowed by the dust just off the coast of Africa, but this time conditions are more favorable for a potential storm. Around here, everyone is having a good time and no one wants to think of the hurricane season. Yet, a woman I spoke with on Friday went into a panic mode when Hurricane HUGO was mentioned. All we can do is pray and hope that whatever is coming will bring us lots of beneficial rain and nothing destructive. May God bless us all. Isabel The day was mostly overcast and showery,  but some things always manage to look nice.  End of day photo:  |
| - Day 18 : What a day! |
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The funeral for the 49 yr old man who died of a heart attack was blessed with sunshine. I helped to prepare the many details before the farewell Mass at Holy Cross Church. The breeze was kind of stiff coming from the east windows, so we had to close the middle ones for fear that the large poster picture of the deceased would be blown down, otherwise the breeze was most welcome in a church which was rapidly filling up. Later I drove with my family to the West, our West, Frederiksted. Hardly any parking; many visitors both there and in Christiansted. People feel more free of lockdowns and just want to get away from wherever they live. They don't care if it's the hurricane season. As a matter of fact, it's the best time to visit. The sea is warm, the Flamboyant trees are beginning to sport brilliant red and orange colors, and if you like mangoes, this is the season. A few rain alerts did not produce anything for us, but I still get very excited nonetheless. We need the rain. May God bless us all. Isabel Early morning view Due to the lack of rain, this African Tulip tree has lost much of leaves. Silhouetted like this makes for a nice picture. I think... End of day photo: |
| - Day 17: Three Tropical Waves Heading to the Caribbean |
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Today we have been rained on with good substantial rain. That could be as a result of the first of three TWs. This train of waves is going to continue crossing Africa and splashing down into the Atlantic. Some will become tropical storms or hurricanes. As we have noticed, or probably not, the season began very actively. The C storm is trying to form in the Gulf. The States within can expect torrential rain for days. A warning was issued concerning the danger of flooding and those folks in flood prone areas were advised to pay attention to their local civil authorities. At the moment it is quite stormy here. Looks promising for more rain. Yesterday, I thought it was the 17th, So, I've had two good 17th days! 😁 May God bless us all. Isabel Sunny in the morning!  Then Rain....  End of Day Photo;  |
| - Day 17: 94 L has fizzled ! |
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The dust must have been very dense off the coast of Africa in order for that "robust" tropical wave to have dissipated so soon. On the other hand, most of our day has been sunnier than usual these past weeks. There is rain in the forecast from Thursday to Sunday, but that does not always materialize. However, there is a little blob approaching the islands which is affiliated to a minor tropical wave. That could bring some good saturating rain. We need it, so let it rain at night and the sun shine during the day. May God bless us all. Isabel Sunny day!  The Blazing Sun.  End of day photo: A monster swallowed our sun!  |
| - June 15 - The African Tropical Wave, 94L, is running into some problems |
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At the moment 94L coming from Africa is being tracked only until just before the islands when it is expected to dissipate. So there's no possibility of it arriving as a Tropical Storm, much less a hurricane. As a matter of fact, it is already losing the potential it initially had. The dust is relentless; that being the case, the tropical waves cannot survive. We had a very dense dust "fog" today. My daughter and granddaughter went to the beach with the hope of catching the bit of sun which managed to peek out. Rain is in the forecast and as I look at the dry ground, I just hope it's true. May God bless us all. Isabel The sun is there. Can you find it?  Mom watching the baby, or dad?  End of day photo:  |
| - June 14 - The Saharan Dust is back ! |
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Flag Day is celebrated on this day, but our day was dusty. The blue disappeared again. However, the red, white, and blue will stand forever. Our little flag had only a feeble breeze and a sad, gray sky in which to shine on this day. Brave were the men who fought on as long as the Flag was up encouraging them onwards to freedom. The weather did not matter, nor the exploding bombs around them, and the smoke. As long as the flag fluttered in the wind, there was hope. We're finally getting a VI Flag, same size, to flutter with "the Colors". Could not find it here, but found it on Amazon. I think that all the college kids from here took a large blanket with the VI flag on it to spread on their beds, but we could not find a small flag. Almost funny! Tropical Storm BILL is the second named storm of the season. It's located off the coast of the mainland, heading out to open sea. Today all eyes were turned to Africa when the NHC took notice of the huge Tropical Wave that emerged from the coast. This disturbance is referred to as 94L.Though it is "robust" at the moment, it is expected to be disrupted by the dry air, or dust, halfway to the islands. I am still hoping that since it is so robust, some of it will survive to bring us the much needed rain for which we have been waiting and praying. We shall see. May God bless us all. Isabel Early morning cotton puffs clouds.  Flag Day  End of day photo:  |
| - June 13 - The National Hurricane Center is Very Busy! |
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Yes! It is monitoring four systems around the same area. One of them is the newly formed Hurricane Carlos on the Pacific side heading out, no threat to land. The other three are causing heavy downpours, the one in the Bay of Campeche could become the second named storm on the Atlantic side, in the Gulf. The other two are being watched for possible development. I am looking east to Africa from where our hurricane woes emerge. The sunny skies and clear weather we're having is great for our many visitors, but I know for a fact that tropical waves with bad intentions can get through so much easier. We're not mentally, nor emotionally prepared for a storm this early in the season. However, prepare, we must! May God bless us all! Isabel The path to our Secret Garden on the lower level.  The "good-bye" Sun this Sunday.  End of day photo:  |
| - June 12 - A Very Beautiful Day ! |
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It's been a while since we've had a day like this one. Of course we thought of the beach right away. We headed for Mermaid Beach, which is part of the Buccaneer Hotel. We usually stay just long enough to get a good refreshing soak, except that the sea is getting warmer each time we go. I am keeping track of the drama at the Gulf with the potential storm brewing. The one in the Pacific now has a high chance of developing; fortunately heading away from land. There are three tropical waves crossing the Atlantic. The third one is the biggest and is the one referred to by the Meteorologist, Ruben Garcia, as "potent". I just hope there's enough Saharan dust in the atmosphere to disrupt it. May God bless us all. Isabel Mermaid Beach at the Buccaneer Hotel   End of day photo:  |
| - Day 11: More Sunlight Today... |
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Well, today the sky was a bit brighter! Even the blue was more visible. In other words, it was a mixed bag! Hazy, cloudy, sunny, and even a few drops of rain. Tonight I even saw some stars shining in between cloud clusters. In a way, it was of concern. If the dust should lift now it would mean trouble for us. According to Ruben Garcia, Meteorologist from Puerto Rico, there is a very potent tropical wave off the coast of Africa, which would be a significant threat to us if not for the Saharan dust. As the dust thins out in a month or so, such a potent wave could get through and even develop. Other waves are about to emerge. Hurricane preparedness should be at the top of our list. Prepare for a rough season and be thankful if it isn't. May God bless us all. Isabel The Christiansted Fort  The Frangipani  End of day photo:  |
| - Day 10 : Dust, Dust, Dust ! |
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Clearly folks, this is not the best time to vacation here or anywhere in the Caribbean by the looks of it, especially if you're looking for the blue. It's gray all day, and when the sun makes an appearance it is so fast that it's easy to miss it as I did today. It's hard to get a sunny photo these days. Of greater concern is the potential storm forming in the Gulf, apparently that one is coming across from the Pacific, kind of a break away part that will separate and enter the Bay of Campeche. Thanks to the dust, the two large tropical waves off the coast of Africa don't stand much of a chance to develop, but I hope we can at least get some rain out of them. May God bless us all. Isabel A gray day.  I got a couple of drops when I was outside.  End of day photo:  |
| - Day 9: DUST from Africa through the Caribbean |
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This is an annual event which we don't like, but can't do anything about. It is unsafe for people with asthma and other upper respiratory issues. My husband has been sneezing for the last couple of days and has itchy eyes. We think it must be related to the dust.The advantage of the dust is that it inhibits the formation of storms, but the disadvantage is it dries up the rain clouds. So the water truck made two trips to our house and delivered six thousand gallons. When the dust ends, July/August, it's the beginning of the hurricane season for us. Let's just get everything ready while we can. May God bless us all. Isabel Six thousand gallons of water were delivered today  Dust and clouds.  End of day photo:  |
| - Day 8 : Probability of Storm Developing in Caribbean has Diminished |
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This day looked like the real deal as far as rain goes, but no deal. In Frederiksted it did not rain either, but was very threatening. We had lunch at Rhythms on the Beach where the surf was very strong, the waves crashing against the shore. The sea was definitely angry at something. The blue of sky and sea was sorely missing there as well. The chance of rain remains high for the next couple of days. Nevertheless, my husband has to order the water delivery on Wednesday morning as the cisterns are very low. We have to hope for the best. May God bless us all. Isabel From the Abramson pier in Frederiksted  A Pelican rests between dives at the pier.  Another view from the pier. Heavy clouds loom above.  |
| - Day 7 - Weather Trouble in the Caribbean |
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It was another fuzzy-wuzzy kind of day today; haze, clouds, a splash of sunshine, and thankfully a brief shower or two every now and then. There's a high percent chance of rain on Tuesday; just when we want to go to Rainbow Beach in Frederiksted for a swim with our grandson before he goes off to Spain. Of course, here we are needing the rain and hoping it doesn't so that we can enjoy a rain-free beach time. What a dilemma! The weatherbird was soaring high in the cloudy sky late this afternoon announcing rain, maybe that's what is coming. Further along in the Western Caribbean they are expecting trouble with a capital T. The name Bill has already been mentioned, but until it becomes official it is not official. May God bless us all. Isabel Some plants flourish with a little moisture.  The weatherbird announcing rain.  End of day photo:  |
| - Day 6 - It's Getting Serious Out There! |
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I wish the folks in Central America and along the Gulf Coast all the best as they prepare for what is to come throughout this Hurricane Season. At the moment they should be very concerned. They are often among the worst hit by the storms, which always seem to gravitate towards them. I hope they are taking all the precautions necessary to stay safe. We have to prepare well ourselves as we were already informed that this season the storms will be taking this route. As we know, most people do not take this seriously unless they actually see a storm coming this way. Hurricane MARIA left many shakened. I hope we don't have to go through that this year. Be well, be happy, and may God bless us all.
Isabel Looks like a RAIN cloud.  The Rain !!  End of day photo:  |
| - Day 5: Weather alert in the Caribbean! |
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The upcoming week should be rough for Central America. Lots of activity there, from the Pacific side and the Caribbean side. There's a high chance of impact by a hurricane. We, on the other hand, are still hoping for some substantial rain. Our lawn, which was beginning to look green, is now drying out. My husband plans to order a water delivery for household use only in the next few days. In the meanwhile, we wait for the tropical waves to come sweeping through, bringing us rain, not trouble. May God bless us all.
Isabel When the sky is sad-looking, so is the sea.  End of day photo:  |
| - Day 4: Warning of Possible Cyclone in the Caribbean |
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We were blessed with a few more showers today. One can almost say that the rainy season is here. The rain is still coming up from the south. There is a high chance of a cyclone forming in the Western Atlantic. We are also watching a tropical wave in the middle of the Tropical Atlantic. That one is probably going to pass below us. It is too early in the season for them to come up to our level. But who knows, things change. We do have to keep an eye on those two systems. May God bless us all. Isabel View from Long Reef Condominium   End of Day photo: was taken at Long Reef Condominium where we had dinner with some good friends from New Jersey.  |
| - Day 3: RAIN is in the Forecast! |
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Today was good rain wise. We got two heavy downpours and later in the afternoon another one. That one was funny. It was raining and it was sunny at the same time. Long ago when that happened islanders would say that the devil was beating his wife. As we move closer to the middle of the month there is a possibility of rough weather, possibly cyclonic according to one of our Hispanic weathermen. Not sure how we are going to be affected, but there’s a mess below St. Croix which seems to be moving in this direction. Be prepared for whatever comes, here or on the mainland! May God bless us all.
Isabel The double Bougainvillea is climbing up the African Tulip Tree  End of day photo: (This usually means rain) |
| - Day 2 : Saharan Dust Prevails! |
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It’s been a very dusty day, very hazy; it is kind of typical for June. Unfortunately it helps to prolong the long drought we’ve been having. It has been so severe that our flamboyant trees have yet to bloom. Every now and then we had a note worthy shower, but not enough rain to keep the ground soaked for long. We are grateful for every drop; today we had at least two or three. However, I keep hearing about the route through the Caribbean, which the tropical waves will be taking this year. That is where the danger lies when these waves become tropical cyclones. Wherever you are in the Caribbean, be ready! May God bless us all. Isabel If you can look into the sun there is a screen of dust in front of it. On a clear day this would not be possible. End of day photo: |
| - Day 1 of the 2021 Hurricane Season |
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I hope you saw my earlier post. I’ve been testing photo sizes for my updates. I think I worked it out on the Chromebook. However, the phone is anxious to get into the action. I’m sending flowers to all my followers on Stormcarib before this day is out: |
| - Fwd: HELLO ! Greetings to Gert and to all the stormcarib followers in the Caribbean and beyond ! |
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Day 1: We have been warned! Are we ready? The forecast is for the Caribbean to be impacted by 3 - 5 of the 20 storms this year. Of course, it may not necessarily happen. Colorado is issuing another update this weekend, perhaps it will not be worse than the first one. However, it helps us to get ready. A few days ago I saw an image posted by The Weather Channel of Hurricane MARIA with winds of 175 mph heading to St. Croix. What a frightful image. We experienced it and it was frightful ! So, be prepared and stay safe! May God bless us all. Isabel My signature photo taken at noon with the iPad . I'll be writing my updates on a Chromebook. All good and well, but I'm not sure about the photos. I still don't know how to diminish the size of the photos. Original would probably be too large. I hope I can get some guidance from anyone out there with a Chromebook. I will try to send out a test update with a photo from the Ipad and see which is best. May God bless us all. Be safe. Isabel |
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