Santo Domingo.- The National Meteorological Office (ONAMET) is forecasting downpours and thunderstorms with occasional wind gusts, due to the effects of a tropical system and the cloudy remnants of tropical depression number seven, located over the central part of the island.

The heaviest rains are forecast for the north east, south east, the Caribbean coast, and the southern section of the central mountain range.

Onamet says that the following areas are still subject to severe weather warnings: Greater Santo Domingo, La Altagracia, La Romana, San Pedro de Macorís, San Cristobal, Peravia, San Jose de Ocoa, Azua and Barahona. Local residents are advised to take measures against possible urban flooding and to await instructions from the National Emergencies Committee.

Drivers should exercise caution, especially when rain reduces visibility, say the forecasters.

Maritime conditions on the Caribbean coast remain hazardous, and small craft are being advised to remain in port, while in the Bay of Samaná and the Atlantic coast they are being advised to stay close to shore.

The active tropical wave is located 1,770kms W/NW from the Cape Verde islands, and is moving W/NW with a low chance (10%) of becoming a tropical cyclone in the next 48 hours.