Tropical Storm Watch Possible for Antigua Later Tonight

Authorities across the Caribbean have issued Tropical Storm Watches as Tropical Storm Jerry intensifies, posing significant threats to several islands. The governments of Antigua and Barbuda, France, and Sint Maarten have issued alerts for Barbuda, Anguilla, St. Barthelemy, St. Martin, and Sint Maarten. Residents in the northern Leeward Islands, as well as the British and U.S. Virgin Islands, are urged to monitor the storm’s progress closely. At 5:00 PM AST, Jerry was located near latitude 12.0 North, longitude 46.4 West, moving westward at 23 mph. Forecasters predict a decrease in speed and a turn to the west-northwest in the coming days, with the storm’s core expected to impact the northern Leeward Islands by late Thursday and Friday. Maximum sustained winds are currently at 50 mph, with higher gusts, and Jerry is expected to strengthen into a hurricane within 24 hours. Tropical-storm-force winds extend up to 140 miles from the center, with a minimum central pressure of 1003 mb. The storm is expected to bring 2 to 4 inches of rain, raising the risk of flash flooding, particularly in elevated areas. Additionally, life-threatening surf and rip currents are anticipated as swells reach the islands. Residents are advised to stay updated through their national meteorological services and heed local warnings. The next advisory will be issued at 8:00 PM AST, followed by a complete update at 11:00 PM AST.