ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — Heavy rain, frequent lightning and thunderstorms swept across Antigua and Barbuda on Sunday as a tropical wave moved through the area, with residents in several communities reporting intense downpours and flashes of lightning.

The unsettled weather is being driven by lingering moisture and atmospheric instability associated with the tropical wave, creating conditions favourable for isolated to scattered thunderstorms across the country.

Residents are being urged to exercise caution, particularly during periods of thunder and lightning. Safety officials advise the public to seek shelter immediately inside a fully enclosed building or hard-topped vehicle whenever thunder is heard, as lightning can strike several miles away from a storm, even when rain is not falling.

People are also being advised to avoid open areas, beaches, rivers, ponds, swimming pools, tall trees, utility poles, power lines and metal fences until at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder.

Authorities are encouraging residents to continue monitoring official weather updates, check on family members and neighbours, and remain alert as the unstable conditions are expected to persist while the tropical wave moves across the islands.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Thunderstorms, Lightning and Heavy Rain Reported Across Antigua and Barbuda as Tropical Wave Passes.