Guadeloupe Under Orange Alert for Heavy Rains and Thunderstorms from Tropical Wave 28

Guadeloupe Faces Orange Alert as Tropical Wave 28 Brings Deluge

Guadeloupe has been placed under an orange vigilance alert by Météo-France due to the active Tropical Wave 28, which is bringing heavy rains and thunderstorms across the archipelago. The alert, initially issued for Wednesday, September 24, 2025, specifically highlights the heightened risk for areas, particularly Basse-Terre, where significant rainfall accumulations have already been observed and more are anticipated.

While the tropical wave is progressively moving away into the Caribbean Sea, the atmosphere over Guadeloupe remains humid and unstable, continuing to foster conditions conducive to intense weather.

Intense Rainfall and Thunderstorm Activity

The passage of Tropical Wave 28 has led to a substantial increase in pluvio-orageous activity. Météo-France reported that moderate to heavy showers and thunderstorms are affecting Basse-Terre, spanning from Capesterre-Belle-Eau to Deshaies. Rainfall accumulations could reach up to 90 mm in just three hours in some localized areas. These downpours are also accompanied by strong electrical activity and potential wind gusts.

Overnight and into the morning of September 24, 2025, significant rainfall totals were recorded:

• 135 mm at Saint-Claude/Matouba, with 52 mm falling in a single hour.
• 87 mm at Pointe-Noire/col des Mamelles.
• Radar estimates indicated approximately 200 mm of rain over the Soufrière massif.

The risk of strong showers is expected to gradually shift towards Grande-Terre before a more noticeable improvement in weather conditions is anticipated in the late afternoon.

Safety Recommendations and Outlook

Authorities, through Météo-France, have issued several safety recommendations for residents and visitors during this period of orange vigilance. These include:

• Staying vigilant and continuously monitoring official weather bulletins.
• Avoiding unnecessary travel, especially in mountainous regions or near watercourses.
• Refraining from swimming.
• Taking measures to protect homes and property.
• Preparing emergency supplies such as food, water, candles, batteries, and essential medicines.
• Avoiding the use of telephones and electrical appliances during violent thunderstorms.

Although the vigilance level was lowered to yellow at midday on September 24, 2025, the unstable conditions persist, with moderate to heavy showers and potentially stormy weather still expected across the archipelago, particularly in Basse-Terre and the Pointoise region. Residents are advised to remain cautious and follow official guidelines as the situation evolves.