BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – Tropical Storm Jerry is gaining strength as it moves closer to the Leeward Islands, prompting weather warnings across the region. According to the latest update from the National Hurricane Center in Miami, the storm’s center was positioned near latitude 15.9 North, longitude 59.1 West at 11:00am local time. Jerry is currently advancing west-northwest at approximately 18 mph, with a predicted shift toward the northwest by late Thursday. A slower northward trajectory is expected to follow on Friday and Saturday. Forecasts indicate that the storm’s center will likely pass near or northeast of the northern Leeward Islands later Thursday. Maximum sustained winds have reached 65 mph, with higher gusts reported. Meteorologists anticipate further intensification, potentially elevating Jerry to hurricane status by late Friday or Saturday. In response, the government of Antigua and Barbuda has issued a Tropical Storm Warning for Barbuda. Additionally, a Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Antigua, Anguilla, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, St. Barthelemy, St. Martin, Sint Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius, Guadeloupe, and surrounding islands. A Tropical Storm Warning signifies that tropical storm conditions are expected within the specified area within 12 hours, while a Watch indicates possible conditions within 48 hours. The National Hurricane Center advises residents in the northern Leeward Islands, as well as the British and U.S. Virgin Islands, to closely monitor Jerry’s progression.