tidings
Elizabeth Gonzales
Bad weather has grounded the pleasure boat Harbor Master for the remainder of the Tobago Carnival.
The inaugural carnival officially kicks off on Friday and ends on Sunday, but parties and boat rides have already started the festivities.
On Wednesday, Harbor Master management announced the cancellation of all remaining bookings for the rest of the season.
In a press release, general manager Otis Cornwall said the decision was made after an increase in swells was observed, which made boarding and disembarking extremely difficult and dangerous.
Cornwall said customer safety remains its top priority.
“As the weather continues to remain unpredictable and a major safety risk for both customers and staff, the decision has been made to cancel all remaining bookings with immediate effect.
“Additionally, the Bureau of Meteorology has reported that weather conditions will continue to deteriorate and is scheduled to issue a yellow alert for all motor vehicles navigating Tobago waters on Wednesday.”
On Tuesday, the Met Office extended a yellow severe weather warning for heavy rain and showers with a 70-80 per cent chance of thunderstorms. The alert is expected to end on Saturday.
On Wednesday, Tobago continued to experience heavy rain and flash flooding in areas to the west of the island.
Director of the Tobago Emergency Management Agency Allan Stewart told Newsday that the agency has shifted its focus slightly to preparing for potential natural disasters during severe weather.
