Hurricane Watch Declared for Cayman Islands as Tropical Storm Strengthens in Caribbean

Hurricane Watch Issued for Cayman Islands as Tropical Storm Approaches

MIAMI – A hurricane watch has been announced for the Cayman Islands, while Jamaica is under a tropical storm warning as a significant weather system gathers strength in the Caribbean. This comes as the National Hurricane Center in Miami forecasts the system could potentially strengthen into a hurricane in the northwestern Caribbean this week.

Current Situation of the Storm

As of early Monday morning, the storm was approximately 275 miles (445 kilometers) south of Kingston, Jamaica, and around 465 miles (745 kilometers) southeast of Grand Cayman. The system, currently classified as “Potential Tropical Cyclone Eighteen”, is moving north at a speed of 6 mph (9 kph) and has maximum sustained winds recorded at 35 mph (55 kph).

Potential for Hurricane Development

According to the National Hurricane Center, a storm develops into a hurricane when its maximum sustained winds reach 74 mph (119.1 kph) or greater. On the other hand, winds between 39 mph (62.8 kph) and 73 mph (117.5 kph) classify the storm as a tropical storm.

Impact on Regional Areas

The storm is expected to approach Jamaica by late Monday and will potentially reach the Cayman Islands by Tuesday and Wednesday. Residents in Cuba and the Florida Keys have been urged to closely monitor the storm’s development.

Heavy rainfall is anticipated across the western Caribbean, with totals of 3 to 6 inches (76 to 152 mm) of rain likely. Some areas in Jamaica and southern Cuba could see even higher amounts, with localized totals of up to 9 inches (229 mm). These conditions raise the risk of flooding and mudslides in the affected regions.

Forecast for the Southeastern United States

As the storm progresses, heavy rains are also expected to reach Florida and surrounding areas in the southeastern United States later this week. Residents in these locations should prepare for potential effects from the storm.

The National Hurricane Center continues to monitor the weather systems and will provide updates as the situation evolves. It is crucial for everyone in the impacted areas to stay informed and prepared for possible weather changes.

Conclusion

As the Caribbean prepares for the potential impact of this storm, safety measures and heightened awareness are vital. The forecast emphasizes that residents should pay attention to local updates and be ready for adverse weather in the upcoming days.