The local area dodged a bullet with Erin (see related story) as it passed just a great distance not to have a serious impact. The Tropical Storm Watches never turned into Warnings, even though the first hurricane of the 2025 Atlantic season was just 115 miles north at its closest point late Saturday morning.
It was becoming a catastrophic Category 5 cyclone at the time with tropical storm winds out 140 miles and sustained winds of 160 miles per hour. However, the strongest winds and worst associated weather remained in the northern part of the system as is often the case, which evidently made a big difference.
High seas affected the coast, the usual urban and street flooding occurred, a few mud- or rockslides were reported and there was, of course, some inconvenience; for example, because of having to temporarily close the airport. But, all in all, people on the islands where this newspaper is published can thank their lucky stars.
In fact, the last few days should serve not only as a so-called “dry run” but also a wake-up call for those who had not taken the necessary precautions to protect life and property yet. There is no time to lose either, as a new disturbance is already headed for the Caribbean.
Preliminary forecast tracks indicate the latter may pass on the – generally less favourable – south side of St. Maarten/Saint-Martin. It’s too early to tell, but Erin reminded everyone of what possibly to expect and prepare for in case of a direct hit.
