The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) confirmed Tuesday that Tropical Storm Andrea, the first named system of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, does not pose a direct threat to the Virgin Islands. The storm, located approximately 1,580 miles north-northeast of the Territory, is moving east-northeast at 17 miles per hour with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph.
Although Andrea remains far out in the open Atlantic and is expected to dissipate within the next 24 hours, its formation signals the beginning of active tropical development in the region.
“This is a timely reminder that the Atlantic hurricane season is underway,” the DDM noted in its latest advisory. “Residents and visitors should use this opportunity to review and refresh their preparedness plans.”
While no watches or warnings are in effect for the Territory, officials encouraged the public to remain alert and take precautionary steps. Recommended actions include securing important documents in waterproof containers or backing them up digitally, staying informed through official channels such as the DDM App and WhatsApp alerts, and monitoring real-time conditions via the WeatherStem station at bvi.weatherstem.com/tortola.
The DDM reiterated that although it is not a meteorological authority, its weather information is sourced from contracted professionals and regional partners. The department emphasized that its advisories are for general guidance and should not be used for legal or financial decision-making.
Tropical Storm Andrea formed over unusually warm waters in the northern Atlantic between Bermuda and the Azores, well north and east of typical early-season development zones. According to the National Hurricane Center, Andrea is expected to be short-lived.
The 2025 hurricane season is forecast to be above average, with up to 10 hurricanes predicted, including as many as five major storms. Upper atmospheric wind conditions and Saharan dust have so far contributed to a slow start, but forecasters caution that conditions are likely to become more favorable for storm formation as the season progresses.
Residents are advised to continue monitoring updates from the DDM and the National Hurricane Center.
