The Meteorological Service is reporting that Tropical Storm Sandy has started to gain strength as it moves closer to Jamaica.

Meanwhile, a hurricane warning remains in effect for the island.

This means that in fewer than 24 hours dangerously high water or a combination of dangerously high water and exceptionally high waves, should be expected.

Average winds will be around 64 knots or 118 kilometre per hour or higher.

At 10:00 p.m. the centre of Tropical Storm Sandy was located near Latitude 15.2 degrees North, Longitude 77.2 degrees West.

This is about 315 kilometres (195 miles) south-southwest of Kingston, Jamaica or 185 kilometres (115 miles) south of the Pedro Cays.

Sandy is moving north-northeast near 17 km/h (10 mph). This is twice the speed it was moving at 1:00p.m.

A turn toward the north at a faster forward speed is expected tomorrow as Sandy aims straight for Jamaica.

The centre of Sandy is now forecast to reach Jamaica’s southern coast (in the vicinity of Kingston) shortly after midday Wednesday, then cross over the island to the northern coast (in St. Mary) and head towards eastern Cuba by Wednesday evening.

Maximum sustained winds are now near 95 km/h (60 mph) and Sandy is expected to reach hurricane strength by tomorrow morning before reaching Jamaica.

Tropical storm force winds extend up to 220 kilometres (140 miles) from the centre.

Rainfall, associated with Tropical Storm Sandy is forecast to increase tomorrow morning producing rainfall amounts in excess of 150 millimetres (6 inches) per day.

Hurricane-force winds will gradually develop during Wednesday morning and could generate storm surge of 1-2 metres (3-7 feet) along Jamaica’s southeastern coastline.

Periods of heavy rainfall and gusty winds are likely to persist through Thursday.

All small craft operators are advised to remain in safe harbour until all warning messages have been lifted and wind and sea conditions have returned to normal.

The next Bulletin on Tropical Storm Sandy will be issued at 5 o’clock tomorrow morning.

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