Go-Jamaica Weather Watch

A Tropical Storm Warning and a Hurricane Watch remain in effect for Jamaica, even as a weakened Tropical Storm Gustav moves closer to Jamaica. This means that hurricane conditions still pose a possible threat while tropical storm conditions are expected to affect Jamaica in 24 hours or less.

At 4:00 p.m. the centre of Tropical Storm Gustav was located near latitude 19.1 degrees North and longitude 74.4 degrees West; about 230 km (140 miles) northeast of Morant Point, Jamaica, or 150 km (90 miles) southeast of Guantanamo, Cuba.

Gustav is drifting west-northwestward at about 6 km/h (4 mph) and this general motion is expected to continue through tonight with a gradual increase in forward speed.

Maximum sustained winds are nearly 85 km/h (50 mph), with higher gusts, and slow strengthening is forecast tonight and tomorrow. Tropical storm force winds extend up to 85 km (50 miles) from the centre.

On its forecast track, the centre of Tropical Storm Gustav will continue to move away from Haiti this evening and then pass between Cuba and Jamaica tomorrow. Outer bands of the storm could affect Jamaica with scattered showers and gusty winds this evening; however, heavy rainfall and strong winds are projected to spread across the island later tonight and through the day tomorrow, especially over northern parishes.

All small craft operators, including fishers from the cays and banks, are advised to remain in safe harbour until all warning messages have been lifted and wind and sea conditions have returned to normal.

All interests should continue to listen to subsequent News Releases from the Meteorological Service. The next Bulletin will be issued at 8:00 p.m. today.