The rainfall caused flooding and mudslides, resulting in about $34 million in damage (1970 USD); 186 homes were destroyed, and 700 people were left homeless.

[1] It tracked generally westward, developing into a tropical depression on August 17 about 1,375 miles (2,215 km) east of Tobago in the Lesser Antilles.

[2] Two days later, it strengthened into Tropical Storm Dorothy, while located about 500 mi (800 km) east of the Lesser Antilles, with its intensity confirmed by the hurricane hunters.

Its track was expected to continue generally west-northwestward, influenced by a ridge near the Bahamas, and within 60 hours Dorothy was forecast to be north or over Puerto Rico.

[3] However, a subsequent hurricane hunters flight reported a more westerly motion, which would bring its track through the central Lesser Antilles.

[4] Tropical Storm Dorothy gradually intensified, reaching peak winds of 70 mph (110 km/h) on August 20 just east-northeast of Barbados.

[9] After another flight into the system could not detect a circulation, the NHC discontinued advisories on Dorothy to the south of Hispaniola late on August 22.

Around the same time, thunderstorms increased in association with the cyclone, and forecasters remarked the potential for re-intensification over the western Caribbean Sea.

[4] On Martinique, authorities released a statement that warned the public for the potential for strong winds, heavy rainfall, and rough waves.

[24] The French Red Cross distributed 500 blankets and one ton of condensed milk; the agency also sought international assistance.