WEATHER (6:00 AM, Wed October 8): Overcast skies, scattered showers today from Tropical wave; heavy rainfall, gusty winds expected from Thursday as TS Jerry approaches

A tropical wave continues to influence weather patterns across the region, bringing overcast skies and scattered showers, some of which may intensify to moderate or heavy levels, accompanied by thunderstorms. Residents in areas susceptible to flooding, landslides, and falling rocks are urged to remain vigilant and exercise extreme caution. Meanwhile, the Small Craft Warning and High Surf Advisory have been lifted as sea conditions are anticipated to improve today, with waves expected to reach up to 7 feet along the east coast and 3 feet along the west coast over the next 24 hours. However, the approaching Tropical Storm Jerry is likely to worsen sea conditions by Thursday, with swells predicted to reach 10 to 12 feet in open waters on the east coast and around 7 feet on the west coast. Mariners and coastal users are advised to stay updated on weather developments and remain prepared. As of 5:00 AM, Tropical Storm Jerry was positioned near latitude 13.3°N and longitude 50.7°W, approximately 725 miles east-southeast of Dominica. The storm is moving west-northwest at 23 mph, with maximum sustained winds of 50 mph and a minimum central pressure of 1003 mb. Forecasts indicate a gradual decrease in forward speed over the next few days, followed by a turn toward the north-northwest and north by Friday. The core of the storm is expected to pass near or north of the northern Leeward Islands late Thursday and Friday. Dominica is projected to experience rainfall exceeding 4 inches, accompanied by gusty winds, starting Thursday. Residents and stakeholders in Dominica are advised to closely monitor the progress of Tropical Storm Jerry as it moves closer to the islands.