UPDATE: Ernesto weakens overnight, tropical storm warning continues for Jamaica

The Met Service is reporting that Ernesto showed signs of weakening last night; however, a tropical storm warning remains in effect for Jamaica as the systems prepares to move south of the island.

This means that tropical storm conditions, including possible sustained wind speeds of 34-63 knots or 63-118 km per hour, are expected for sections of the island today.

On the current track, the centre of the tropical storm will pass 250 kilometres (160 miles) south of Jamaica today before moving north of Honduras on Monday.

At 4:00 a.m. the centre of Tropical Storm Ernesto was located near Latitude 15.1 degrees North, Longitude 74.8 degrees West.

This is equal to about 340 kilometres (210 miles) south-southeast of Morant Point, Jamaica.

Ernesto is now moving towards the west near 35 km per hour (22 mph) and this motion is expected to continue today and tonight with a decrease in the speed at which the system is moving.

Maximum sustained winds are now near 85 km/h (50 mph), with higher gusts, and some slow strengthening is forecast during the next 48 hours. Tropical storm force winds now extend outward up to 205 km (125 miles) from the centre of Ernesto.

Satellite imagery indicates that Jamaica is already being influenced by the outer rain-bands associated with Tropical Storm Ernesto.

The Met Service says these will continue to produce periods of heavy rainfall and strong, gusty winds over the island today, starting in the east and progressing to the west.

Residents in southern coastal areas should also expect increased tides during the passage of the system.

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

The Meteorological Service continues to monitor the progress of this system, and all interests should pay special attention to further Releases.

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